Birmingham City’s 2023-24 season has been disastrous. Despite a promising start, the club’s bizarre boardroom decisions led to relegation.
To complicate matters, preparations for their first season in League One in 30 years are stalled as they search for another new manager.
The recently released retained list highlights a pressing need for attention in the goalkeeping department. Backup keeper Neil Etheridge’s departure has been confirmed, while number one John Ruddy has been offered new terms. Youngster Bradley Mayo has been offered a professional deal, but if Ruddy leaves, the Blues will be thin on goalkeeping options.
With that in mind, here are five goalkeepers the club could consider for what promises to be a challenging season:
Joseph Anang – West Ham United (out of contract this summer)
Anang, 23, is set to be available on a free transfer and eager for first-team action. The England Under-20 international has been with West Ham since his teens, serving as their third-choice keeper and being named on the bench for several Conference League and Premier League matches. His first-team experience comes from loan spells at Stevenage, St Patrick’s Athletic, and Derby County, though his time at Derby was cut short by injury. Despite limited exposure to first-team football, Anang could be a shrewd signing for Birmingham.
Lawrence Vigouroux – Burnley
Vigouroux was a standout for Leyton Orient during their 2022-23 promotion season before moving to Burnley. He kept 24 clean sheets, prevented over six goals against xG, and didn’t make any errors leading to goals. A move for Vigouroux would depend on Birmingham meeting his wage demands and the interest in Burnley’s other keeper, James Trafford. While unlikely, Vigouroux would be an excellent addition.
Wes Foderingham – Sheffield United (out of contract this summer)
Foderingham’s season with Sheffield United has been rough, but he has extensive experience across all levels of English football. The former Rangers keeper, who has kept 44 clean sheets in 131 League One matches and 36 in 72 Championship outings, could provide valuable experience for a young Birmingham squad. At 33, he would be a useful veteran presence.
Max Stryjek – Wycombe Wanderers (out of contract this summer)
Stryjek might be a budget-friendly option. Although he fell out of favor at Wycombe and went on an emergency loan to Crewe Alexandra, he excelled during the 2022-23 season with 16 clean sheets and just 40 goals conceded. He prevented over eight goals against xG and had high save rates. Stryjek could be a solid choice for Birmingham’s incoming manager.
Corey Addai – Crawley Town
Addai would require a substantial financial package, especially after Crawley’s promotion. The 26-year-old was phenomenal during their successful campaign, keeping eight clean sheets and preventing an impressive 15.83 goals against xG. While this is the most unlikely signing, Addai would be an outstanding addition to the Blues.
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