Birmingham City are expected to close a deal for Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart in hours.

The Independent says the player's agent confirmed last night that promoted Birmingham City have tabled a bid for an individual who has demonstrated his capacity to perform at the top levels but whose opportunities have been severely limited since Shay Given arrived from Newcastle in January.

Birmingham, who have just returned to the Premier League, have agreed a loan deal, to be extended to a permanent move the season after next if Hart meets up to expectations and plays 40 games for them. The deal, agreed between Birmingham and Hart, has yet to be signed off by chief executive Garry Cook, who is currently on holiday.