Birmingham City’s season has hit a major pothole since the start of December, slipping from the play-off places to 12th in the Sky Bet Championship.
Since Gianfranco Zola replaced Gary Rowett in mid-December, Birmingham are without a win.
This run of results leaves Zola’s men with a difficult task of catching sixth placed Sheffield Wednesday, who are nine points ahead of them.
The Italian boss is looking to strengthen his squad during the January transfer window, in a bid to narrow the gap to the play-offs.
The January transfer window is an important time of year for managers in the Football League, and bringing in the right players can either make or break a club's season.
Here are TWO deals Birmingham must complete before the window closes on January 31st:....
Emilio Nsue
The Middlesbrough man is close on agreeing a deal to join Birmingham this January.
Nsue was part of the Boro team that secured promotion to the Premier League last season, making 46 appearances and scoring three goals.
However, with just six months left on his current deal at the Riverside, Boro look set to let their versatile man leave this January.
Nsue has made just four appearances this season and his Championship experience could be vital in helping Birmingham claw their way back into pay-off contention.
Johnny Russell
Derby County and Birmingham have been in discussions over the possible transfer of Russell, although have failed to agree on the players valuation.
Like Nsue, Russell has a wealth of Championship experience.
He joined the Rams in 2013 and has made 160 appearances for them, scoring 28 goals in that time.
The Scottish International hasn’t featured for Steve McClaren’s side since their 3-0 defeat to Norwich City.
With the St Andrew’s outfit looking to get back into the top-six, Russell’s experience could be vital.
During his spell with Derby, the winger has featured in the play-offs in the 2013/14 and 2015/16 seasons.
Birmingham fans… Do you think it is important your club signs these two players? Are there any other players you would like to see you club sign? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!