As Birmingham City seek a replacement for midfielder Tommy Doyle, one ambitious target is 27-year-old Ao Tanaka of Leeds United. Tanaka was a star player in Leeds' promotion-winning Championship campaign but has surprisingly found it difficult to make an impact in the Premier League. The Japanese player could consequently be on the move. There is interest in him from Germany, where some 2. Bundesliga promotion chasers are admirers, but Birmingham City could compete to sign him. Although a deal would not be cheap, his recent struggles suggest a potential fee of no more than £10m, which is considered a feasible amount for the Blues. Tanaka joined Leeds in August 2024 and his contract is valid until June 2028. In the current Premier League season, he has scored two goals in 21 appearances. The midfielder has earned 35 caps for Japan, scoring eight goals. Transfermarkt lists his current market value as €10.00m.