Birmingham set to unveil Forssell

Birmingham are poised to unveil Chelsea striker Mikael Forssell as their first major summer signing on Friday.
Manager Steve Bruce has returned from holiday to complete the deal.

Bruce swooped to land the 24-year-old, a major success on loan in 2003/4, after Everton pulled out of a deal amid reported concerns about a knee injury.

Spurs also wanted Finnish star Forssell as part of a compensation package for sporting director Frank Arnesen, who is set to move to Chelsea.

When Everton's move for Forssell stalled, Birmingham seized on the chance to sign a player they have long admired and managing director Karren Brady worked on a compromise package with Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon.

While Chelsea would rather receive a straight fee for Forssell, Birmingham would prefer a pay-as-you-play agreement or to take him on another loan.

They are mindful of Forssell's knee condition which meant that his second season on loan was cut short last September after just a handful of appearances.

Forssell was a massive hit on loan at St Andrews, netting 19 goals - including 17 in the Premiership.