Birmingham City will be looking to strengthen their squad before the end of the transfer window, as they attempt to close in on a spot in the play-offs.

Gary Rowett's side sit just outside the top six on goal difference, having won four of their last five matches in the Championship, including 3-0 wins over promotion rivals Derby and Ipswich in their last two fixtures.

The manager, who signed a contract extension earlier this month, has seen one of his most talented players leave this month, as Demarai Gray made the move to Leicester City, but other players have been told they won't be allowed to leave until reinforcements are brought in.

The only new permanent arrival at St Andrew's so far is Luke Maxwell, who joins the Championship side from Kidderminster Harriers, although Will Buckley has also come in on loan from Sunderland.

FootballLeagueWorld highlights THREE players Birmingham should try to sign in the coming days......

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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE 3 PLAYERS!

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Diego Fabbrini

Watford striker Diego Fabbrini had a brief loan spell with Birmingham last season, making just five appearances for Rowett's side, but he impressed enough that the manager is now believed to be keen to bring him back on a permanent basis.

Birmingham would need a favour from promotion rivals Middlesbrough to complete the deal though, as the Italian is currently on loan with Aitor Karanka's side with no recall clause.

The 25-year-old has scored six goals in 26 appearances with Boro this season, but isn't among their top scorers, so he could be allowed to leave, giving Birmingham the chance to sign a striker that knows the Championship this season, and is familiar with the club.

Fabbrini is excellent with the ball at his feet, and can create chances for his teammates with his ability to play through-balls and quick passes.

Abdenasser El Khayati

One of the players linked with a move away from St Andrews is Andrew Shinnie, and the signing of Burton Albion's Abdenasser El Khayati could make his exit possible.

The 26-year-old striker, who can also play on the wing, was linked with several Championship clubs earlier this month, including Birmingham.

The Dutchman, who moved to the Pirelli Stadium on a free last January, has scored eight goals in 26 appearances for the League One side this season.

The 26-year-old is untested in the Championship, but if he can continue his Burton form at St Andrews he would be a great addition to what is already one of the strongest attacks in the division.

Matt Phillips

QPR are reportedly willing to let highly-rated winger Matt Phillips leave in this window, so the 24-year-old could be seen as a replacement for Gray.

The Scot has been heavily involved for the Hoops this season, scoring five goals in 29 appearances after breaking into the first team during their spell in the Premier League in the 2014-15 campaign.

Phillips won't be cheap, with QPR thought to have turned down a £6m bid from Middlesbrough earlier this month, but the London side need to lower their wage bill, while manager Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has been told to sell if he wants funds to buy new players, so the asking price could drop.

The winger has four assists in the Championship this season, largely thanks to his ability to cross and shoot from distance, while he's also a threat from set pieces.

Birmingham fans...What do you make of these players? Who would you like to see join the club this week? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!