Birmingham City are lining up a move for former Djurgardens striker Kerim Mrabti this January, according to Birmingham Live.

The Blues are working within tight restrictions this window, able to make only one signing and even then under strict conditions. It's thought the 24-year-old fits those conditions, having become a free agent after leaving the Swedish Cup winners in November.

Mrabti has represented Sweden on three occasions, having turned down the chance to play for Tunisia, the nationality of his father. In 2015 he won the Allsvenskan Newcomer of the Year, much like the Young Player of the Year in England.

After an impressive season for the side that finished seventh in the Swedish top flight, he's now searching for his next challenge which could well be at St Andrew's. His 18 goals from 77 appearances had prompted Newcastle to show interest in the summer, with a fee of £1m being touted.

That would have put him well out of the reach of the heavily restricted Blues, but now he's a free agent they could make him their one and only signing of a tough January window.

Garry Monk admitted that there's one player he's working on signing at the moment, but wouldn't be drawn on who it was.

“We are down the line with one, we are in discussions with that. If that can be done - then great. If not it’s always a difficult window anyway. But we will see," Monk revealed to Birmingham Live. 

“If we can do that it will only be someone who can help strengthen the squad. If we can I will be excited by that, it will be a big, big help for the squad.”

The Verdict

This would be the best possible outcome for Birmingham given their situation. They could sign a player on loan, but that wouldn't boost the squad in the longer term.

If they secured a Swedish international for nothing when they're tightly bound by restrictions, it would have to be classed as a huge bonus for Garry Monk and his players.

The lad could have been a Premier League player right now had Newcastle followed up their interest. That marks him out as having quality in my opinion.

Thoughts? Let us know!