Boyhood Leeds United fan David Stockdale has agreed to join Birmingham City despite a reported approach from Leeds United.
The Yorkshire Evening Post claim that Leeds were interested in signing goalkeeper Stockdale following the expiration of his contract with Brighton.
It is said that the Yorkshire giants made “initial contact with Stockdale’s representatives” but did not follow up their approach with a firm offer.
Stockdale, 31, has surprised many by agreeing a three-year deal with Birmingham and will complete a move to Harry Redknapp’s side when his contract at Brighton ends on 30 June.
ICYMI: @stockogk1313 has penned a three-year deal with the Club ????
Full details ???? https://t.co/aKBAnZd62W #BCFC pic.twitter.com/amgoXrrvnd
— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) June 14, 2017
Stockdale, who was born and brought up in Leeds and is a lifelong supporter of the club, was offered a contract extension by newly promoted Brighton but could not agree terms after being an integral player in their second-placed Championship finish.
He started all but one of their league games, and was named in the division’s team of the year after recording 18 clean sheets.
Stockdale is also proven in the Premier League after making 52 appearances for Fulham during their top-flight days, 39 of which came in league competition.
Leeds’ established number one is Rob Green, who overcame a difficult start at the club to be one of the outstanding keepers in the Championship last season.