Birmingham City interested in Elphick at the right price – Harry Redknapp
By Josh Tonti
Birmingham City manager Harry Redknapp confirmed he’s interested in Aston Villa center back Tommy Elphick. In the most unsurprising caveat ever, only at the right price.
Blues manager Harry Redknapp is still looking for reinforcements to his squad. Things are not exactly grand across the city as the club fears losing star center back Ryan Shotton to Middlesbrough.
Moreover, Blues lost their opening Championship match over the weekend. They remain among the betting favorites for a surprise relegation from the second division.
From the Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa center back Tommy Elphick is one such player he is interested in. As is Boro’s Stewart Downing.
"“He was an outstanding player for Bournemouth in the Premier League so Tommy is a good player.“If he’s available at the right price, he’s a player that would interest us – but it has to be the right price.”"
‘At the right price’ is the most anticlimactic caveat of all time. Elphick arrived last summer as Villa’s first summer signing following relegation. His £3 million price tag was widely regarded as a coup for Bournemouth’s ex-captain. He was to be the one to change “lazy” dressing room culture surrounding Villa.
Unfortunately, under Robert Di Matteo, it was not to be. The Italian got axed in under 15 matches after a single victory. Elphick then suffered a small muscle injury during Steve Bruce’s coronation. Thereafter, he played second-fiddle to new-captain James Chester and Nathan Baker.
The solid central defense partnership did Elphick a disservice as he was never able to re-establish himself with the claret and blues. A Chris Samba and a John Terry transfer later and he’s unfortunately on his way out at Aston Villa.
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Birmingham City and Harry Redknapp have long been linked to Tommy Elphick. It feels like one of those situations that drags along until deadline day when one or both sides caves on a fee.
Aston Villa is likely looking to recoup most or all of the £3 million sum.