Leeds United are close to securing a deal for Birmingham City stopper David Stockdale who was told he could leave the West Midlands club.

The Whites, who appointed Marcelo Bielsa as manager last week, had been on the lookout for a new number one after Felix Wiedwald moved back to Germany.

The former Werder Bremen man endured a very difficult spell in English football, losing his place to youngster Bailey Peacock-Farrell towards the end of the season.

And, he will be replaced by Stockdale, with journalist Joe Rawson claiming a deal for the keeper could be confirmed later.

Stockdale surprised many when he turned down a contract offer from Brighton 12 months ago, a side he had helped win promotion to the Premier League, to join Birmingham on a longer deal.

However, things didn't go to plan for him or Blues, with Harry Redknapp sacked and the club fighting relegation.

Now managed by former Leeds boss Garry Monk, he was keen on shifting the 32-year old who is commanding a very big salary from St. Andrew's.

The Verdict

This is a pretty good move for Leeds as they need a keeper and Stockdale has proven himself at this level over the years.

He will also add experience to the backline and is a promotion winner which could make him an important influence on the group.

But, he wasn't always convincing at Birmingham last season and Leeds will hope he can rediscover the form he displayed at Brighton that made him one of the better keepers outside the Premier League.

Thoughts, Leeds fans? Let us know in the comments below.