Birmingham City face a fight to retain the services of goalkeeper John Ruddy, with Charlton Athletic having opened talks with the shot stopper, according to Football Insider.
The 37-year-old has been an ever-present at St Andrew’s since making the switch from rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2022. Having joined on an initial one-year deal, his performances saw him extend his stay by an additional 12 months after less than half a season.
The one-time England international remained between the sticks last season as the Blues endured a nightmare campaign. Following John Eustace’s sacking in October, they entered freefall, leading to their eventual relegation from the Championship.
Birmingham are hoping their stay in League One will be a brief one. They are keen to keep Ruddy and confirmed in May that he had been offered a new contract. However, he was reluctant to commit whilst the club’s management situation was up in the air. Chris Davies landed the position earlier this month, which appears will be a catalyst in the situation. Speaking earlier this month, the goalkeeper told Ben Foster on The Fozcast:
“When they get the manager sorted we will see what happens. Hopefully there’ll be a couple more conversations but I’ve had conversations with other clubs as well. It’s just a matter of keeping your options open and seeing what comes about.
“I still want to play and that would be my first preference because I have really enjoyed playing in the last two years. After four years at Wolves where I wasn’t playing, I’ve done 89 games in two seasons. I feel physically good and feel like my performance level has been fairly decent. There’s obviously peaks and troughs but I do believe I have been consistent on the whole.”
One of the clubs who look to have held talks are Charlton. It is claimed the Addicks are looking to bring in further experience in the goalkeeping department, although they have already signed Will Mannion from Cambridge United.
Charlton have already been very active during the transfer window. Aside from Mannion, they have completed the acquisitions of Luke Berry and Josh Edwards, whilst Millwall defender Alex Mitchell is thought to be close to making the switch to The Valley.
Writer’s View
Nathan Jones means business this season as he looks to compete at the top end of League One. Last season was a huge disappointment for the Addicks and they the signings they have made so far will only make them stronger.
Despite his ailing years, Ruddy would be an excellent option for anyone in League One, but he will need assurances. Having enjoyed a resurgence at Birmingham, playing time will be all that interests him and this could be key in negotiations with either his current club or any potential suitors. The Blues have just signed Ryan Allsop from Hull City, which indicates his time at St Andrew’s is coming to an end.
Head of Writing
