Birmingham City face financial obstacle in pursuit of Championship midfielder.

Birmingham City are interested in Stoke City midfielder Josh Laurent, but wage negotiations may be difficult, according to reporter Fraser Gillan.

Birmingham City and Stoke City were both fighting to avoid relegation from the Championship last season.

The Potters climbed out of the bottom three, while the Blues were relegated to League One. It marked the end of a deeply disappointing season for the club, setting them back in their ambitious plans for the future.

However, the club’s hierarchy has continued to spend money despite being relegated. City hope to dominate the third-tier competition with some eye-catching new signings.

A new name has appeared on the radar at St. Andrew’s.

Birmingham City are’very keen’ on Stoke City midfielder Josh Laurent, according to X reporter Fraser Gillan. He adds that, despite the Blues’ wealth, wages may be an issue.

Birmingham very keen on Stoke captain Josh Laurent but wages may be a issue. #BCFC #SCFC

— Fraser (Fletcher) Gillan (@FrazFletcher) July 15, 2024

Laurent is currently under contract with the Potters through the summer of 2025.

A surprise obstacle?

Given Birmingham City’s financial resources, it’s surprising that they could be priced out of a deal for Laurent due to wages.

The club will pay a healthy weekly salary to both existing players and new signings. Perhaps they want to try to tighten their purse strings a little by not paying too much.

However, Laurent may be allowed to leave Stoke City this summer, according to reports. Given his importance to the team, the Potters will almost certainly demand a fair fee for the midfielder.

The midfielder was captain for much of last season and is a valuable asset on and off the pitch.

Deserving of a Championship stay.

Laurent has established himself as an important Championship player over the years. He impressed with Reading before becoming a key figure at Stoke City, where he has made 156 league appearances.

His physicality in the middle of the park gives him a strong presence, and his versatility allows him to play in a variety of positions, making him an important member of Steven Schumacher’s Potters squad.

As a result, it would be surprising to see him drop to a lower level next season.

You’d think Birmingham City would have the money to tempt him into doing so. However, despite their strong interest, he may be out of reach as a potential exit beckons.

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