Birmingham City will not be pursuing a move for Sporting Gijon attacking midfielder Cesar Gelabert. The 25-year-old was linked with a switch to Blues over the weekend by Spanish newspaper Marca after an impressive season in Spain's second tier which saw him record eight goals and four assists. Gelabert was part of a wide-ranging search for a No.10 type player early in the summer but the interest has not developed.
What happened to Osman?
Blues want to re-sign Osman following his successful loan last season but manager Chris Davies recently suggested it's now 'less likely' based on feedback he's received from the Brighton end. Osman has been a fixture in their pre-season preparation and played 30 minutes in their 1-0 win over Bologna at the weekend. Brighton begin their season with a Europa Conference League play-off against Tromso on Thursday evening and there is every chance Osman could be involved.
Why it matters for Birmingham City
The club are still searching for at least two new signings with a number 10 and a left-winger priority positions to strengthen for manager Chris Davies. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 10th in Championship, 64 pts, 17W-13D-16L from 46 games, recent form DWWDW. Goals this season: 57 scored, 56 conceded (+1 goal difference). Title race: 31 points behind leaders Coventry.
What comes next?
Blues captain Christoph Klarer is a fierce competitor on the field but the birth of his daughter has taught him to embrace his softer side off it. Klarer and his wife Lara welcomed their first child into the world earlier this year. As a result, the 26-year-old has learnt to park football at the front door - irrespective of Blues' result on any given weekend.
Powerchair football initiative
Birmingham City stars Carlos Vicente and Jay Stansfield have helped launch the Foundation's Powerchair football programme. The pair attended an event at the University of Birmingham where they were able to not only promote the initiative but actually have a go themselves. Indeed Blues' stars have also helped set up the programme by donating a percentage of their win bonuses to help finance the chairs.
