Source: Daily_Mail
Birmingham set to seal deal for former Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins
Birmingham have confirmed that striker Obafemi Martins has been granted a work permit as they look to complete the initial loan deal for former Newcastle striker ahead of the close of the transfer window.[LNB]The Rubin Kazan player flew into England yesterday to finalise terms - with a view to a permanent move to St. Andrew's in the summer - before undergoing a medical today.[LNB]City were optimistic of obtaining a new work permit for the Nigerian international.Martins already has a permit but it is null and void as he left this country to join Wolfsburg from the Magpies 18 months ago.[LNB][LNB] Top Toon: Obafemi Martins could soon be playing in the Birmingham Blue[LNB]Blues boss Alex McLeish has been desperate to bring in a new striker throughout January.[LNB]He has already failed in attempts to sign Robbie Keane from Tottenham and Kenny Miller from Rangers.[LNB]Birmingham are hopeful of retaining another striker in Cameron Jerome -a target for Stoke - after the England Under-21 player made it clear hewants to stay at St. Andrew's.[LNB] Wanted Man: Zigic has been linked with a return to former side Racing Santander[LNB][LNB]But the picture is less clear regarding ?6million signing, NikolaZigic, with Racing Santander wanting to sign him on loan or in apermanent deal.[LNB]McLeish indicated last week that it would be "difficult to let Ziggygo" if he repeats the form shown in the Carling Cup semi-final win overWest Ham.[LNB]The former Scotland boss made the same point to City's acting chairman, Peter Pannu, on Saturday.[LNB] Birmingham striker crisis eased as Zigic switch back to Spain hits snagClub-by-club guide to every Premier League transfer deal during JanuaryScrap the window! LMA chief Bevan claims majority want it removed [LNB] Explore more:People: Robbie Keane, Obafemi Martins, Alex McLeish Places: Birmingham, Newcastle, Scotland, United Kingdom
