This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Birmingham City manager Pep Clotet is looking to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes, with the club in negotiations with Valencia over their midfielder Fran Villalba, it is reported on Spanish media outlet AS.

Despite an opening day victory over Brentford, manager Clotet is not resting on his laurels and is looking towards the 21-year-old Spaniard who has been at Valencia since 2015.

So would Villalba be a good addition at St Andrew's?

We discuss.........

Josh Cole

"If Birmingham can somehow pull off a move for Villalba, it could turn out to be a fantastic coup for Pep Clotet.

"An extremely gifted midfielder, the Spaniard impressed whilst on loan in the Segunda Division for Numancia last season, illustrating both an eye for goal as well as defence splitting pass and thus could provide the Blues with some much-needed creativity from midfield.

"Although Birmingham have already strengthened their options in this area this summer by signing Dan Cowley, the arrival of Villalba could allow the club to push on and better the 17th place they achieved last season in 2020.

"Having kicked off the 2019/20 campaign with an impressive 1-0 victory over Brentford, the Blues could top off what has been a fine week for the club by signing a player who has all the ingredients needed to make a real impression in the Championship over the next nine months."

Ned Holmes

“This could be a really exciting signing from the Blues.

“Despite both Jota and Che Adams leaving, the club have not added much in terms of attacking reinforcements but the young attacking midfielder should add some creativity to Pep Clotet’s squad.

“The 21-year-old had a productive year in La Liga 2 last season, scoring four times and providing seven assists, so he should be full of confidence as he makes his switch.

“Villalba had drawn the attention of some La Liga sides, so the fact he appears to be keen to move to St Andrew’s is a great reflection 

“The fact that he has less than 12 months on his contract means this is a deal that shouldn’t break the bank, which is a bonus.”

Gary Hutchinson

“This is clearly a talented footballer; Spain Under 19 honours and an upbringing at Valencia, one of the finest clubs in Spain.

“That all hints at a real pedigree, a player with class. As a midfielder I’m told he’s good on the ball, creative and able to pick a pass.

“Why on earth would he want to move to Birmingham City? What can they offer him? A foothold in the English game? A trip to Kenilworth Road on a Tuesday night?

“It’s not a move that I think suits either the player or the club. I rarely see young talent from warmer countries settle in the UK and I don’t see why this lad would be any different.”