Birmingham City has continued their ambitious summer spending spree ahead of the League One campaign by securing Brighton midfielder Marc Leonard, beating out QPR, Cardiff City, and Derby County for his signature.

Following their relegation from the Championship last season, Birmingham City are favorites to win the third-tier title and secure promotion back to the Championship. Their impressive summer transfer activities have heightened these expectations, with Leonard being the latest addition to their squad.

The 22-year-old Leonard spent last season on loan at Northampton Town in League One, where he played 46 matches, scored five goals, and provided six assists, earning the club’s Player of the Season award. Leonard joined Brighton from Hearts in 2018 but has only made two first-team appearances for the Seagulls.

Brighton was willing to sell Leonard after his successful loan spell, with a £300,000 fee initially suggested. However, competition for his signature drove the price above £500,000, which Birmingham City agreed to pay.

QPR had been in the market for a central midfielder after Isaac Hayden’s loan deal expired, with hopes of bringing him back permanently from Newcastle United. However, they have since shifted their focus to Jonathan Varane of Sporting de Gijon.

Wrexham AFC, Oxford United, Cardiff City, and Derby County were also potential destinations for Leonard. However, Birmingham City secured the deal, which was confirmed by Football Insider on Thursday. Leonard is expected to sign a four-year contract with the club.

Leonard joins a slew of new signings at St Andrew’s, including Christoph Klarer, Willum Thor Willumsson, Emil Hansson, Alex Cochrane, Ryan Allsop, and Bailey Peacock-Farrell. Additionally, Birmingham City is reportedly working on a League One record £6 million move for Fulham striker Jay Stansfield.