Birmingham City are lining up a move for Aston Villa defender Tommy Elphick. Harry Redknapp wants to bring the defender as he is eyeing to better his side’s chances in the next season.
The centre-back was handed the responsibility to lead the side at the start of the season but soon lost his place in the side to James Chester who became the preferred choice under Steve Bruce.
Birmingham somehow survived the relegation scare following a last gasp win over Bristol City in the penultimate match and Redknapp wants to avoid anything similar next season.
The gaffer wants some heavyweight players for his Championship side and Elphick suits the profile. The defender has ample experience of the second tier and could help the Blues in their promotional battle.
Elphick has already fallen behind in the pecking order and the arrival of John Terry would make things difficult for him. The veteran Chelsea defender disassociated himself from his long spell at Chelsea and he is set to play a more effective role next season at the Midlands.
Elphick was the captain of the Bournemouth side which got promoted to the Championship from League One under his stewardship and his much-acclaimed performance in the Cherries’ back line earned him a move to the Villa Park.
But things haven’t fallen into place since his much-hyped move to the Villa Park. Following his stupendous spell for the Cherries, he was subsequently handed the armband but he couldn’t emulate his form for the Championship side which led to his ouster from the starting lineup.
Villa spent aggressively in the transfer market last season but failed to grind out the much-desired results as they finished in the 13th position. Owner Tony Xia has fixed a tight budget this time and Bruce needs to work within this parameter.
Leeds United and Sunderland are also interested in the player as both the teams need some restructuring in the defence and Elphick could be a very good catch.
Sunderland, particularly, are crying out for a much-accomplished defender. After a very disappointing season, the Black Cats need some polishing in the defensive section next season and the ex-Bournemouth player could help Simon Grayson in his promotional battle.
Elphick had started last season very positively but the defeat against Newcastle United proved to be the nail in the coffin. Since then he endured a very torrid season and might be looking for a way out and a new start.
