Birmingham City boss Lee Bowyer has made it clear that any deal for Alen Halilovic won't be resurrected, stating that Tahith Chong has been brought in as his replacement.

The Croatian playmaker enjoyed a strong end to the season under the current Blues chief but with his contract expiring there were doubts about his future.

A deal was offered to the 25-year-old but Halilovic didn't sign, as he chose to assess his options ahead of the new season. With the ex-Barcelona man still without a club, there was a feeling with some that he could end up returning to St. Andrew's.

However, speaking to Birmingham Live, Bowyer explained how a return will almost certainly not happen.

"I think that we’ve brought in Chong, so for me that won’t happen. He had his opportunity, and that opportunity has gone, we’ve replaced that position. If you were to say to me is that going to happen, I’d say very, very, very unlikely."

The versatile Chong, who can play in various attacking positions, joined Blues from Manchester United on loan for the season in a move that was seen as a real coup for Bowyer.

The verdict

There was a real frustration among the support that a deal for Halilovic couldn't be agreed because he was an important player under Bowyer and his quality on the ball was clear to see.

But, with Blues' moves in the market recently, there won't be too many disappointed now. They have recruited extremely well, with the likes of Jordan Graham and Chong sure to give the team that spark in the final third.

So, they are in a healthy position heading into the new season and Halilovic may be regretting the fact he didn't sign up now.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.