Scott Dann and Roger Johnson are being monitored by Arsenal as interest mounts in the defensive pair.
With their contracts only having around 18 months remaining and talks stalling, rumours have been rife over whether Dann and Johnson will stay at Birmingham. Alex McLeish has denounced the rumours as “absolutely laughable” although admitted that there are no talks in progress and that he hasn’t seen Dann in a couple of weeks.
Both defenders came up through the divisions and have impressed as their careers have evolved with Johnson voted player of the season twice whilst at Cardiff. The two formed a formidable partnership last season which saw Birmingham finish in 9th place – their highest league finish in 50 years.
Both believe that they are being underpaid by the Blues and are eager to progress with talks in order to clinch a pay rise. With the club stubbornly denying them the discussions they crave, a move from one of the top clubs could force Birmingham to cash in before the defenders are able to leave on a Bosman.
Arsenal could use some depth at the back with Dann and Johnson able cover. Johnson also brings with him a goal threat and is gaining a reputation for his blistering long-range efforts that always seem to at least hit the target. Both would be extremely interested in a move that would see them not only compete in Europe but also gain the wages they deem acceptable.
With Birmingham struggling in the league this year the pair may want to face a new challenge next season as the club would struggle to repeat the successes of last season. There has been minor interest from Spurs and Chelsea with both clubs ready to move in if Arsenal fails to capture either player.
There has been no indication of fee’s as of yet but something around £7 million for both would be the most likely amount given the length of time left on the current contracts. Birmingham needs to open talks sooner rather than later to stand any chance of keeping their defensive partnership intact.
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