Birmingham City have recently been linked with the signing of Crewe Alexandra captain Perry Ng, as per reports from TEAMtalk.

The 23-year-old has made over 150 appearances for the Cheshire club since coming through the ranks at Gresty Road, and has established himself as a key player for Alex of late.

The right-back - also capable of operating as a centre-half - has registered five assists for Dave Artell's side this term, but faces an uncertain future at the club as enters the final months of his contract with Crewe.

TEAMtalk claim that Birmingham, along with Nottingham Forest, Derby County and Bristol City are among those looking to capitalise on Ng's contract situation.

Birmingham endured a quiet January transfer window with Scott Hogan turning out to be the club's only addition, but Pep Clotet will be confident of strengthening his squad in the summer.

Here, we take a look at one winner and one loser if Blues seal a deal for Ng...

Winner: Pep Clotet

Birmingham's financial problems have been well-documented over the past few years, and it doesn't take a rocket scientist to work out that they can't exactly break the bank this summer.

Clotet will have to be smart in his recruitment, and it could prove to be a real coup signing a player of Ng's potential on a free transfer.

Can you get full marks on this Birmingham quiz?

Granted, the defender is unproven above League One, but he is possesses real leadership qualities and can play in a number of positions in defence.

On a free transfer it could be a shrewd capture, especially with the calibre of clubs also reportedly interested in the young defender.

If he turns out to be a success, all plaudits will be given to Clotet.

Loser: Wes Harding

Harding has made 15 appearances for Birmingham this season with 12 of those coming in the Championship, but only five of those appearances have come from the off.

The 23-year-old has battled hard when fighting for a place in the first-team, but the right-back has been unable to get into the side ahead of Maxime Colin due to the latter's real quality.

The arrival of Ng could potentially push Harding down the pecking order though, as a new signing is likely to be firmly in Clotet's plans.

With his contract expiring this summer, Harding should be looking to work harder than ever to extend his stay at St. Andrew's for more than one reason now.