Championship outfit Birmingham City are closing in on the signing of Chelsea youngster Jeremie Boga on loan for the rest of the season, reports today’s The Daily Mirror’s Live Blog (11.38am).

The 20-year-old began his youth career in French before moving to Stamford Bridge back in 2008, although had to wait until this month to earn his senior debut for the Premier League champions.

The Ivory Coast international enjoyed loan spells at Rennes and Granada in the past, but finally earned a first team appearance for Antonio Conte’s men earlier this season by starting their 3-2 defeat to Burnley on the opening weekend, although he was replaced after 18 minutes due to the red card to Gary Cahill.

And it appears that he is about to embark upon his first loan spell in English football, as Harry Redknapp’s Birmingham are reportedly closing in on securing a loan deal for the midfielder.

The 70-year-old has struggled to overhaul the Blues squad in the way many expected him to over the summer, with five permanent additions and three loan signings slightly less than what was initially expected, especially given they’ve been linked with several players.

Yet it does appear that Boga is one deal that will be concluded this week, which is sure to give manager Redknapp further midfield options ahead of the rest of Birmingham’s Championship campaign.

The Verdict: Jeremie Boga was a surprise starter in Chelsea’s first Premier League game of the new season, although his dream debut lasted just 18 minutes as it was he who was sacrificed following Gary Cahill’s early red card.

And as with many youngsters on the books at Stamford Bridge, his first team chances were always going to be few and far between, which is why a move out on loan to Birmingham, his first loan spell in English football, makes sense for both the players and indeed Chelsea.

And it will be welcome news to Harry Redknapp as well, as the 70-year-old has clearly been frustrated with their lack of transfer activity this summer, having seen a deal for Ogenyi Onazi fall through, while possible moves for Stewart Downing and Afriyie Acquah remain unsolved.

Yet a move for Boga does appear to be a deal set for completion in the not too distant future.

Birmingham fans… what do you make of the news? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!