Ecuador striker Christian Benitez has moved to Birmingham from Mexican side Santos Laguna in a deal which could cost up to £7.7million. The 23 year old told the club's official website: "I am really happy to have signed for Birmingham and am looking forward to playing for the club.

"I think it is the right time for Christian Benitez to take on the challenge of the Premier League.

"I will be giving everything to score as many goals as possible and share in good times with the club."

Benitez is the son of one of Ecuador's all time leading goalscorers, Ermen Benitez.