This January could prove pivotal for Chris Davies and Birmingham City in terms of both incomings and outgoings. As reported by the Birmingham Mail, midfielder Marc Leonard’s exit this window is a strong possibility.
With the January transfer window now underway, many players will be looking to make a switch in pursuit of more game time in the latter half of the season.
The 24-year-old was omitted from the Blues’ squad during their resounding 3-2 victory over league leaders, Coventry City. But throughout the 2025-26 season, Leonard’s minutes have been less than consistent, stuck behind the likes of Tomoki Iwata, Tommy Doyle, and Paik Seung-ho for the midfield positions.
Signing for the Blues from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer of 2024, the young Scotsman was considered one of the hottest talents in the EFL.
Pivotal to Northampton Town’s promotion to and consolidation in League One, Leonard’s ability was clear to see in his two loan spells at Sixfields.
Now likely to depart to feature on a more consistent basis, reports declare that any move would more likely be a permanent one, with two-and-a-half years remaining on the Scotsman’s contract.
Sure to benefit any Championship or League One side, where will the midfielder end up?
This article will explore some potential destinations in both League One and the Championship to see which clubs could suit Leonard the most.
Oxford United
Three points adrift of safety and recently parting ways with Gary Rowett, their second season in the Championship has been a struggle for the Us.
Most often losing matches by a single goal, a few smart signings and the right appointment could steer Oxford to safety this season.
Marc Leonard’s dynamic range of abilities in the middle of the park could flourish in the midfield with the likes of Will Vaulks and the soon-to-return Cameron Brannagan.
While Oxford is yet to appoint a manager, the opportunity for Leonard on a permanent deal would be hugely befitting of the transfer model employed at the club.
Should the club be relegated, Marc Leonard would be an astute asset for any challenge for an immediate return to the second tier, while heavily improving their dynamism in the midfield for the relegation battle.
Charlton Athletic
Charlton Athletic have made a respectable return to the second tier following their play-off victory over Leyton Orient; however, recent results have seen fans begin to look over their shoulder, with just one win in the last eleven.
Therefore, Nathan Jones could be looking to rejuvenate his side in the winter window to help welcome back the impressive form shown at the start of the campaign.
Largely lacking a creative output in the middle of the park, Leonard could be the spark to help Charlton consolidate their position in the second tier.
Jones is more than capable of getting the best out of his players, and Leonard’s potential under his management could skyrocket.
Additionally, if Leonard were to be played in a more progressive role in the Charlton midfield, it could alleviate the creative responsibilities of James Bree, who the Addicks have been largely dependent on at wing-back.
Swansea City
Often associated with a high-possession, attractive playstyle, Swansea City could be a great environment for Leonard to flourish.
Usually dominating possession in their matches, Swansea City need reinforcements if they are to get anything out of this season.
This January will see a new manager, Vitor Matos, look to imprint his style on the side, and bringing in his own players will be vital to that.
Tidy on the ball and capable of progressing further up the field, the Scotsman could be a vital asset to any projects at the club, as a reliable man in the middle with a dynamic range of abilities.
Currently sitting in 17th, appearing to be safe from any relegation danger, while any promotion dreams could be a little far-fetched, the remainder of the season will be vital for Matos in developing his style of play at the club.
Stockport County
Delving into League One, Stockport County are struggling to live up to the levels of last season.
Inconsistent would sum up the Greater Manchester side this season, who currently sit 6th in League One, nine points adrift of the automatic promotion places.
County have often been known to be unafraid in the winter window, so changes could be expected this window.
With Marc Leonard reportedly available for a permanent move away from Birmingham City, it would be surprising if Stockport weren’t a potential suitor, given their tendency to shop in the divisions above.
Huddersfield Town
Back at the top-end of League One, Huddersfield Town will likely need to shop in the January market if Chelsea loanee, Leo Castledine, is recalled by his parent club to seek gametime in the Championship.
While Leonard may not have the same goal-scoring ability and traits as the Chelsea loanee, he would offer a creative outlet and tidy up play in the middle of the park for the Terriers.
This could potentially open an avenue for the performances of strikes Alfie May and Joe Taylor to improve, while Leonard would also likely become a long-term asset in the Huddersfield squad for years to come.
Therefore, Marc Leonard could offer Lee Grant a new dimension in the middle of the park should their talisman part ways this winter.