Reports link the ex-Arsenal & Liverpool man with a shock move to Birmingham City. He is currently a free agent after a mutual termination of his contract at Beşiktaş and has been maintaining fitness by training back at Arsenal while weighing offers in England. Evening Standard and talkSPORT have both reported on his return to train at London Colney following his Beşiktaş exit. Interest from Birmingham City has been widely trailed in recent weeks. Sky Sports.
What’s been reported
- Contract status: Beşiktaş agreed to terminate his deal ahead of schedule, leaving him free to sign elsewhere. talkSPORT.
- Training with Arsenal: The midfielder has been using Arsenal’s facilities while he considers offers. Evening Standard.
- Birmingham City links: Multiple outlets have linked the Blues with a move, framing it as an ambitious Championship addition. Sky Sports · bet365 News.
Why Birmingham City might appeal
- Return to England: Recent coverage suggests he prefers a move back to England for family and football reasons. bet365 News.
- Profile & experience: A Premier League and Champions League winner, he would add high-level experience and versatility to a squad with promotion ambitions. Sky Sports.
The football case: statement signing or gamble?
- Pros: Tactical versatility (wide/central roles), leadership from top-level dressing rooms, and availability on a free transfer could make this a smart, attention-grabbing move. Sky Sports.
- Cons: An injury-affected recent record and the physical demands of the Championship raise questions about minutes and consistency. talkSPORT.
Numbers snapshot
- Beşiktaş (most recent spell): Reported at five goals and one assist across competitive appearances before exit. talkSPORT.
- Honours: FA Cups with Arsenal; Champions League and Premier League with Liverpool (career highlights widely cited across outlets such as Sky Sports).
Verdict
If Birmingham City complete the deal, it would be a clear statement of intent and a lift for the fanbase. The upside-experience, quality, profile-is obvious; the risk centers on availability and adapting to the Championship slog. As things stand, credible reports say he’s weighing options and a decision is expected once he’s satisfied with fitness and the right project. The72 · Football League World.
Note: This article summarises reporting from established outlets at the time of writing. If/when a move is confirmed, update the headline and add quotes from club/player announcements.