Birmingham City have received financial compensation following the transfer of former defender Rico Browne to Walsall.
The 20-year-old, who left St Andrew’s in the summer, has signed a one-year contract with the League Two side, with the option for an additional season. The move comes as the Blues begin to set the pace in League One and will probably be a drop in the ocean compared to what they’re spending.
Browne was among several players to depart Birmingham City during the summer transfer window, but it has now emerged that he wasn’t simply released. Walsall’s CEO, Ben Sadler, explained in a social media post that Birmingham retained their rights to compensation as Browne had been offered a new contract, which he declined. As a result, the two clubs agreed to a compensation package in light of Browne’s move to the Saddlers.
He wasn’t released – he turned down a deal there in the summer so BCFC rightly retained compensation rights which we’ve agreed with them now 👍 https://t.co/mkjsIl9LBz
— Ben Sadler (@bensadler12) September 19, 2024
Although Browne never made a senior appearance for Birmingham, he was a regular in the club’s youth ranks, having joined six years ago from Spanish side Elche. He played for both the Under-18 and Under-21 teams and spent part of last season on loan with Rushall Olympic in the National League North, where he made 18 appearances and scored once. Browne now faces the challenge of stepping up two divisions to compete in League Two with Walsall.
Walsall announced Browne’s signing after a successful trial period with the club. Head Coach Mat Sadler praised the defender, noting his previous loan spell at Rushall and highlighting his potential for improvement.
“Rico’s been with us for almost two weeks,” said Sadler. “He’s a young player that I knew a lot about anyway, he had a good loan spell at Rushall last season… I’m delighted to bring Rico in, and we look forward to working together.”
Browne expressed his excitement about joining Walsall, stating, “I’m delighted to be here. I consider myself a ball-playing defender. I love to get aggressive, but I like to take a lot of care on the ball and start attacks from the back. I can’t wait to get out there at the Bescot and show what I’ve got.”
Browne’s move is still subject to EFL clearance, but if everything goes through in time, he could be in line for his debut when Walsall face Salford City on Saturday.
Writer’s View
While seemingly minor in the grander scheme of Blues business, Rico Browne’s transfer to Walsall represents a smart business move for Birmingham City. By offering the player a contract in the summer, Birmingham City ensured they would receive compensation when he moved on. This type of strategy can help the club recoup funds, even from players who never made a senior appearance.
For Browne, this is a crucial step in his career, moving to a club where he will likely have the opportunity for regular first-team football. At 20 years old, this experience will be invaluable as he looks to continue his development. Walsall, too, will be pleased to have secured a promising young player who fits their vision for growth.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
