
Anfield Index
·19 agosto 2025
Report: Former Liverpool Star Close to Joining Birmingham

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Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·19 agosto 2025
Birmingham City are exploring the possibility of bringing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain back to English football, with Besiktas prepared to part ways with the midfielder despite a year left on his contract.
The 32-year-old, who joined the Turkish side following his departure from Liverpool, could be made available on a free transfer. Discussions are understood to be ongoing within both clubs as Birmingham assess whether his addition could strengthen their Championship promotion push.
After winning the League One title last season, Birmingham have started life back in the Championship with four points from their opening two matches. The club are aiming to sustain momentum and build a squad capable of returning to the Premier League at the first attempt.
Senior figures at St Andrew’s see Oxlade-Chamberlain as a player who can add significant experience to their midfield. Having accumulated more than a decade of Premier League involvement across spells at Arsenal and Liverpool, along with 35 England caps, his profile aligns with Birmingham’s desire to blend proven quality with their younger talents.
Since moving to Besiktas in 2023, Oxlade-Chamberlain has registered 44 appearances across all competitions, scoring five goals and providing one assist. Although his minutes have fluctuated at times, he has remained a useful squad option.
Besiktas, however, are open to adjusting their wage bill and squad composition, leading to the possibility of sanctioning his departure a year earlier than expected. Birmingham are monitoring developments closely as they weigh up whether the midfielder could offer both tactical depth and leadership in their bid for promotion.
A return to English football would represent a significant step for Oxlade-Chamberlain after two years in Turkey. Birmingham’s interest signals their intent to make ambitious moves in the transfer market, and while no final agreement has been reached, the interest is concrete.
If a deal materialises, it would reunite the midfielder with the Championship — a competition that continues to attract players with extensive Premier League pedigree. For Birmingham, it could be a decisive signing in shaping their push towards the top flight.