Birmingham Keen to Add Samaras to Striking Options

Birmingham City have identified Georgios Samaras, the Manchester City striker, as one of their principal targets during the transfer window as Alex McLeish seeks to increase his attacking options to help avert the threat of relegation. It is understood that Birmingham have notified Manchester City of their interest, with sources indicating that a "firm inquiry" has been made for the Greek international who has endured a miserable two years at Eastlands.

The 22-year-old has managed only 12 goals in 65 appearances since joining City for £6m from Heerenveen in January 2006 and was heavily criticized by fans for his performances in the closing stages of Stuart Pearce's reign. Earlier in the season, Sven-Goran Eriksson suggested Samaras might be granted a second chance - "It's a mistake to think he has no future with us," said City's manager - although there is no doubt the forward will be sold if a suitable offer is received.

Both Charlton and Coventry are also believed to be keen on signing Samaras, albeit on loan, but the Greek would prefer to remain in the Premier League, something he made clear in the summer when Middlesbrough were close to agreeing a deal before the transfer deadline. His dismal goalscoring record, which undoubtedly contributed to Pearce's sacking, will not inspire Birmingham supporters but there is a feeling he could rediscover his touch at St Andrew's.

Birmingham have struggled to score goals all season and although Mikael Forssell has declared himself fully fit, McLeish has admitted that he is having to "wrap him in cotton wool" to ensure he does not suffer a recurrence of his knee and hernia problems. With Cameron Jerome and Garry O'Connor the only other two recognized strikers at the club, the need for reinforcements is clear and Samaras' arrival would, at the very least, offer greater competition for places.

He is contracted to City until 2010 but personal terms would not be a problem at St Andrew's. How much City are seeking to recoup for Samaras is unclear but it is highly unlikely that Birmingham would be willing to pay more than half the £6m fee the forward commanded two years ago. His match fitness might also be a problem, with Samaras starting only two Premier League games under Eriksson and registering one goal this term, in the Carling Cup against Norwich in September.