Birmingham have signed former Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins on a six-month loan from Rubin Kazan.
Hot-shot joins Birmingham on six-month loan switch
Birmingham have signed former Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins on a six-month loan from Rubin Kazan.
The switch from the Russian side has gone through after the 26-year-old passed a medical at St Andrews and had a work permit granted.
The Nigerian - who could join permanently at the end of the season if he impresses - has arrived to bolster Alex McLeish's attacking options as he looks to keep the Blues in the top flight.
The Blues had previously been linked to Spurs' Robbie Keane and Kenny Miller from Rangers.
Birmingham acting-chairman Peter Pannu, who has already overseen deals for Curtis Davies and David Bentley during the transfer window, said: "We are thrilled to have secured three players in this window, which represents a comprehensive strengthening."
Martins has plenty of Premier League experience, having spent three years at St James' Park between 2006 and 2009 and scored 39 goals in 105 appearances during that spell.
He then spent 12 months at German outfit Wolfsburg before moving to Rubin in July last year.
Great news
Upon arriving at St Andrews, Martins told
Sky Sports News: "I am delighted to be here. I can't wait to play for them."
The African ace is also looking forward to the prospect of turning out for the Blues in the Carling Cup final.
He added: "That's very great news. It's going to be my first time playing at Wembley. I am very happy."
Pressed on when he was expecting to link up with his new team-mates for the first time, Martins said: "I think on Wednesday or Thursday."
