News Summary
Birmingham City is negotiating to bring back winger Demarai Gray from Al Ettifaq. Gray, who has expressed his desire to return, originally came through the Birmingham academy and previously played for clubs like Leicester City and Everton. His transfer could enhance Birmingham’s squad as they prepare for a Championship campaign following their League One title victory. With his experience and versatility, Gray’s addition can provide the team with valuable options on the field.
Birmingham City is currently in advanced negotiations to re-sign Demarai Gray from Al Ettifaq. The deal’s structure is under discussion between the two clubs as both parties aim to finalize a potential transfer.
Demarai Gray, who expressed interest in returning to Birmingham, originally progressed through the club’s academy. The 28-year-old winger joined Al Ettifaq from Everton in the summer of 2023, where he signed a contract that runs until 2027. Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, Gray has made 50 appearances for Al Ettifaq, contributing four goals and five assists over two seasons.
If finalized, this move would mark Gray’s return to Birmingham nine and a half years after he left for Leicester City in January 2016. Gray began his football journey at Birmingham’s academy, joining at the under-11 level. He made his professional debut at the age of 17 and went on to make 78 appearances for the club from 2013 to 2016, scoring eight goals before transferring to Leicester for an estimated £3.7 million.
Gray’s Career Path
During his time at Leicester City, Gray was part of the team that achieved an extraordinary feat by winning the Premier League title in the 2015-16 season. Following his success at Leicester, Gray had short stints with Bayer Leverkusen and Everton. With Everton, he played 67 league matches and scored 14 goals before moving to Al Ettifaq.
Birmingham’s Recent Performance
Birmingham City recently celebrated a successful season by winning League One and is now preparing for a return to the Championship. This upcoming campaign will be the club’s third under the management of American investment firm Knighthead Capital, with Tom Brady serving as a minority shareholder.
Negotiation Dynamics
The likelihood of Gray’s return is enhanced after the Jamaica national team’s exit from the CONCACAF Gold Cup, which frees him up for quicker negotiations. Birmingham’s head coach, Chris Davies, previously worked with Gray during their time at Leicester City, suggesting an established rapport that may facilitate Gray’s reintegration into the team.
Impact on Birmingham’s Squad
Gray’s return is anticipated to add both experience and versatility to Birmingham City’s squad. He possesses the ability to play on both flanks and can also be utilized in a forward position if necessary. Al Ettifaq’s management has expressed respect for Gray’s desire to return to England, recognizing his positive attitude during his time with the club.
As discussions continue between Birmingham City and Al Ettifaq, fans and stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential of re-signing a player who is not only familiar with the club but has also demonstrated significant talent and skill on the field.
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- TalkSport
- GiveMeSport
- Google Search: Demarai Gray Birmingham City transfer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Demarai Gray
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
