According to sources, Birmingham City is in the lead in the hunt to recruit Fulham striker Jay Stansfield.
The Blues and Fulham “remain locked in talks” regarding a potential £6 million move for Stansfield, the Telegraph reports. Birmingham is attempting to make a significant statement of purpose, although it is also said that other Championship clubs have expressed interest.”
Sunderland has been a longtime admirer, while Cardiff City has expressed a “tentative” interest. Prior to this summer, Hull City had also been keeping a careful eye on Stansfield and would consider taking him on loan if he became available.
After his performances in the previous season, the 21-year-old has gained a lot of popularity among the fan base. In 43 games, he managed 12 goals and 2 assists while playing for a side that was demoted from the Championship.It would be fascinating to see if Fulham’s £35 million purchase of Emile Smith-Rowe from Arsenal will have an impact on Stansfield’s chances of making the first team at Craven Cottage. In a friendly played behind closed doors on Saturday, Marco Silva’s team defeated Watford 6-1, and he scored a goal. Apart from Birmingham’s relegation, Silva stated at the close of the previous season that Fulham had hoped for the loan at Birmingham. When he returned, Stansfield would then have the opportunity to show himself, he claimed.