Birmingham sign Espinoza, Johnson offer accepted

Birmingham have swooped to sign Ecuadorian defender Giovanny Espinoza from Barcelona Sporting Club on a two-year deal.

The centre-half is Ecuador's second highest capped player, amassing more than 80 appearances for La Tri, including two World Cups to date.

"I'm very much looking to playing for this club," he said. "It's a new step in my football career and I hope I can help the team. I think I can bring experience to the defence as I've played a lot of games at club level and for the national team.

"My objective is the same as the team, to first of all help the club remain in the Premier League. Personally I hope to establish myself in the team, give 100 per cent in every game and play as much as possible."

Meanwhile, the club are poised to further strengthen their squad after having an offer accepted for Cardiff defender Roger Johnson.

Blues boss Alex McLeish has sealed a season-long loan deal for Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart, and has wasted no time in moving back into the transfer market to bolster his back line.

''We can officially confirm that we have come to a financial agreement with Birmingham City Football Club for the permanent transfer of Roger Johnson,'' Cardiff said in a statement.

''Roger has now been given permission to talk to the newly promoted Premier League side.''

Cardiff have been resigned to losing Johnson this summer after he expressed a desire to join a Premier League club.

Johnson, 26, has made 129 appearances and scored 14 goals for Birmingham since signing from Wycombe for £275,000 three seasons ago.

If the deal goes through, the 6ft 3in Johnson is likely to partner another new signing, 22-year-old Scott Danns, who has joined Birmingham from Coventry.