/ Editor / 22 June 2007 /

Scottish international striker Gary O'Conner says he is desperate to join Birmingham and has begged Steve Bruce to complete a deal.

Birmingham are in negotiations with his current club Lokomotiv Moscow about a £2.25million move, which could rise to £3m depending on add ons.

The Russians though are holding out for more money up front with less clauses and, with Wigan and West Ham said to be interested, they maybe in the stronger bargaining position.

The 24-year-old is desperate to get away from Moscow, where his family have failed to settle and a move to the Premiership would be ideal.

O'Connor admitted: "It would be a dream come true to be able to play in what I think is the best league in the world. I hope that the clubs can come to an agreement over the fee."

With a lack of signings so far this summer, Betfair punters anticipate a season of struggle for Bruce's men.

Birmingham are trading at 2.26 to be relegated back to the Championship, in a market headed by play-off winners Derby (1.6). Wigan are on offer at 2.2 while Fulham can be backed at 2.88.

Blues are available to back at 6.6 to finish rock bottom come next May, another market headed by the Rams, who are on offer at 3.05.

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