Birmingham takeover talks continue

Birmingham City have confirmed that "discussions are continuing" over a possible takeover.

Blues directors David and Ralph Gold, David Sullivan, Karren Brady and Roger Bannister have agreed a 29.9 per cent stake to Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung and his company Grandtop International Holdings Limited (GIHL).

Further investment from Yeung is possible, according to Birmingham who told the London Stock Exchange: "Shareholders should be aware that there is currently no indication at this stage that a formal offer will be made for the company as a whole.

"But discussions are continuing with GIHL which may or may not lead to a cash offer being made for the the company in due course."

Meanwhile, the Blues have finally completed the signing of Scotland striker Garry O'Connor for £2.7 million from Lokomotiv Moscow.

The 24-year-old is delighted to have signed for the Premier League newcomers, telling reporters: "It's a fantastic opportunity to play against the best players in the world. I'm going to take that with both hands now."

O'Connor, who left Hibernian for Lokomotiv in March last year, continued: "I'm sure I can give a lot to Birmingham.

"I'm ready to listen to what the coaches have got to say and I hope I can work my way into the team and show I'm a good player.

"I'm looking forward to working with Steve Bruce and Eric Black, I'm sure they can bring things to my game.

"It's the right time for me to move back and to be moving back to the best league in the world."

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