Football Insider has revealed that Birmingham City have made a double swoop for Bristol City defensive duo Aden Flint and Joe Bryan, for a combined total of £5m. 

Redknapp this week admitted that he would like to get new arrivals through the door ahead of the big Football League kick off and fears his side will find this season 'difficult' otherwise.

The former Tottenham Hotspur boss, maybe in a ploy to put pressure on the Birmingham board to put their hands in their pockets and get deals done, or maybe being genuine, stated that he can only do the job if he is given the 'tools' to do so.

It would appears as if the board have listened to his claims, tabling a joint bid for two of the most highly rated defenders in the Championship - although Bristol City boss Lee Johnson is doubtless keen to retain the services of the defensive duo.

With Ryan Shotton reportedly unsettled by recent speculation surrounding his future, wishing to move away from St Andrew's if the opportunity arises, Redknapp's need for central defensive reinforcements is even more acute - although the report also suggests that the former Portsmouth boss will face stiff competition from divisional rivals Leeds United if he is to secure the signature of 28-year-old towering defender Flint.

As far as academy product Bryan is concerned, Leeds are also looking at him as a replacement for left-back Charlie Taylor, who has left Elland Road to join Burnley.

The Verdict:

Redknapp, despite being linked with predictable moves for veterans such as Ashley Cole, younger, hungrier blood such as Flint and Bryan is what he needs if he is to transform the fortunes of his side.

However, a £5m bid feels a bit on the skinny side, if Lee Johnson is to reluctantly part with 50% of his back four, just days before the new Championship season starts.

Moreover, it feels as if Redknapp will have his work cut out to convince the pair to choose St Andrew's over Leeds United, given the respective league finishes of the clubs last season.

Birmingham fans - what do you make of the double swoop? Let us know below...