Birmingham City are closing in on a shock swoop for Argentina youth international Mauro Zarate, who currently plies his trade with Qatari club Al-Sadd.

The Middle Eastern side claim that Blues have made an approach to take the 20-year-old on loan until the end of the season with the option for a permanent deal after that.

"Al-Sadd club received an offer from the Premier League club Birmingham City to seek the service of the club's Argentina star Mauro Zarate on loan from January until end of the season with a possible ultimate transfer," read a statement on the club's official website.

"Al-Sadd club has no objection to accept the offer. The club would announce a final decision within the forthcoming few days."