Birmingham have had a £3million bid for Marlon Harewood
rejected by West Ham, who want nearer to £5million for the
sought-after striker.
Blues made an offer of an initial £2million plus add-ons for
Harewood, who is surplus to requirements at Upton Park and is also
being chased by Fulham, Portsmouth and Wigan.
But the Hammers are believed to be looking for something near
£5million for the former Ipswich and Nottingham Forest
player.
That is unrealistic from the point of view of Blues, who are also
interested in West Ham defender Paul Konchesky.
Harewood played a major role in the Hammers regaining their Premier
League status two years ago when he scored 16 goals.
But he has gradually slipped down the pecking order and last season
netted only four goals.
Blues boss Steve Bruce has been given the green light to continue
with his transfer plans despite the current uncertainty surrounding
the future of the club.
He has already signed Middlesbrough defender Stuart Parnaby and
agreed a permanent deal for Arsenal midfielder Fabrice Muamba, who
spent last season on loan at St Andrews.
Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung is expected to step up his bid
to buy Birmingham during the next few days.
The billionaire, who was unsuccessful in his attempt to take
control of Reading, has already had his representatives visit St
Andrews and inspect the club's finances.
