Birmingham seal Zarate deal

Argentine finalises move

By Graeme Bailey   Last updated: 21st January 2008

mauro zarate

Zarate: New Blues signing

I don't want to compare him to the Argentinean greats but he's of that mould. He has great balance and mobility.

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Birmingham City have completed the signing of Argentine starlet Mauro Zarate.

The 20-year-old has joined on loan from Qatarian side Al-Sadd until the end of the season with a view to a permanent deal.

Alex McLeish revealed his excitement at landing the young forward.

"We're excited about bringing the player in on loan," said the Blues chief.

"He's one of the Argentinean young guns that were successful in the Under 20 championship last year.

Bonus

"I've heard really good things about him. It's a kind of bonus type signing and one that we hope can turn games.

"He's one of those guys that's comfortable with a ball and caressing a ball, like a lot of South Americans who seem to have those traits.

"I don't want to compare him to the Argentinean greats but he's of that mould. He has great balance and mobility.

"He can play anywhere along the front four. It's another bit of competition up there, but more importantly, it's somebody that we think can create something out of nothing."

Birmingham are hoping Zarate will be able to get his first taste of English action on Monday evening in their reserve clash with Arsenal - but that is subject to international clearance.