Birmingham City are reportedly ahead of fellow Championship outfit Derby County to clinch the signing of striker Kevin Phillips, who is apparently frustrated at not being offered a two-year deal by newly-promoted Premiership side West Bromwich Albion.

Phillips, 34, made an important contribution of 24 goals last season as the Baggies won promotion winning the Championship. He is now, however, being offered just a one-year new deal at the Hawthorns with a further 12-month option in the club’s favour, dependent on appearances.

According to the Birmingham Mail, Phillips appears to have decided Blues should be his next move as Alex McLeish has been patiently courting Phillips since losing Mikael Forssell on a Bosman free transfer to Hannover.

Birmingham boss is also hoping that Sebastian Larsson stays at St Andrews, and is encouraged in that sense as suitors, Newcastle United have signed Argentine winger Jonas Gutierrez.