Luton Town are poised to sign Birmingham City goalkeeper John Ruddy in an attempt to bolster their goalkeeping department.
According to Alan Nixon, the Hatters are making a shock move for the former England international. Luton have been searching for two experienced shot stoppers all summer as they aim to strengthen their depth between the sticks ahead of their survival fight.
Birmingham might be willing to let the 36-year-old if they receive the right offer, however, it is believed they would still require a reasonable fee despite his age.
The Blues had hoped a deal could have been completed last week as it would have helped them force through a move for Wolves’ Mateja Sarkic who has now instead joined Millwall.
Ruddy may be keen on a Premier League return and could stand a fighting chance of starting for Luton in the top flight, rivalling recent arrival from Blackburn Rovers Thomas Kaminski.
Most known for his time spent with Norwich City, the goalkeeper has made over 500 club appearances during his career so far – 44 of those, including this season’s opener, have come for Birmingham.
He made his England debut in 2012 under Roy Hodgson, playing 45 minutes in a 2-1 victory over Italy in an international friendly. Despite being frequently selected for the national squad between 2012 and 2014, it was his one and only appearance for the Three Lions, though it does still show the high regard he was held in at the time.
Is Ruddy the man?
Besides new signing Kaminski, the Hatters also have Matt Macey and James Shea at their disposal in net.
Ruddy would not only offer experience, but also a composed presence within the squad whether he be first choice or not.
He is still a very capable shot stopper, as Blues fans would tell you, and could provide to be a shrewd, low-risk addition this summer.