Championship outfit Birmingham City remain interested in Wolverhampton Wanderers shot-stopper Matija Sarkic but a loan deal is more likely at this stage, according to Birmingham Live.

The 24-year-old plied his trade at St Andrew's last term, establishing himself as one of the first names on the teamsheet and standing out as one of the West Midlands side's most impressive performers, retaining his consistency throughout his spell there.

However, a shoulder injury sustained in January ruled him out of the remainder of the season in what was a real blow for the Montenegro international who had adapted well to the trials and tribulations of the second tier.

Impressing during his 23 league appearances though, keeping 10 clean sheets in the process, Lee Bowyer's side are interested in taking him back to St Andrew's once more to compete with Thai international Neil Etheridge.

In a potential boost for Blues, Wolves' goalkeeping coach Tony Roberts even admitted he would prefer to see Sarkic ply his trade in the second tier as opposed to being on the sidelines, with that advice possibly providing the breakthrough needed to lure the goalkeeper back to the second tier.

At this stage though, a temporary spell is more likely, something that would make sense considering the board's lack of spending during the 2021/22 campaign.

The Verdict:

This would be a fantastic addition for Bowyer's side and if he can be just as effective as he was last time, then Sarkic will certainly go a long way in helping the second-tier strugglers improve their defensive record.

Although they will be hoping the likes of Troy Deeney and Scott Hogan can step up to the plate next season, with the former perhaps performing below expectations during his first season back in the second tier, the defensive is arguably a bigger issue at this stage.

With Kristian Pedersen set to depart on the expiration of his contract, Harlee Dean unlikely to be at the club next term and Teden Mengi returning to Manchester United, this is the perfect time for Bowyer to have a defensive revamp.

Because of this, some would argue improving their goalkeeping department should be a low priority because Etheridge performed reasonably well when he came back in, but very few Birmingham supporters would be upset if Sarkic returned.

He could be a cheap addition as well if he comes in temporarily, so this is a deal worth sealing if they can get it over the line and if they can, it could be a real game-changer for them in their quest to finish in a more comfortable position next term.