Sutton set for Birmingham switch

BIRMINGHAM are poised to make Celtic striker Chris Sutton their first signing during the January transfer window.

The 32-year-old is understood to be close to agreeing a contract with the Premiership strugglers until the end of the current campaign.

Sutton is able to open talks with other clubs as he is in the last six months of his Celtic deal.

Celtic paid Chelsea £6 million (€8.7m) for Sutton in 2000 but at best are likely to recoup only a nominal fee if he makes the switch to St Andrews.

Sutton has averaged a goal every other match during his Scottish career but has made only seven appearances during an injury-hit season.

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan does not want to lose the services of the former Blackburn player, but is aware of the contract situation. Everton have also been linked with a move for the player.

Blues manager Steve Bruce is desperate to add firepower to his attack with Walter Pandiani and Mikael Forssell having scored two Premiership goals between them so far this season.