Birmingham City have identified Montpellier HSC winger Tanguy Coulibaly as a transfer target, according to French journalist Mohamed Toubache-Ter.
The Blues remain active in the market as they prepare for a Championship campaign in which promotion is the clear objective. Chris Davies’ side made a positive impression on the opening day against Ipswich Town, drawing 1-1 after George Hirst’s late penalty. While they missed out on all three points, their performance showcased the ability to compete with top-tier sides in the division.
Coulibaly emerges as a target
Over the weekend, reports from France confirmed that Coulibaly has attracted Birmingham’s attention. The 24-year-old is still under contract with Montpellier until next summer, but their relegation to Ligue 2 could make a move possible before the transfer window closes at 7pm on September 1.
The French side’s financial position, combined with the winger’s expiring deal, may force them to consider offers. With fewer than 12 months left on his contract, this summer could be the most viable time to secure a fee for his services.
Career background and playing style
A graduate of Paris Saint-Germain’s academy, Coulibaly left the French capital in 2019 to join VfB Stuttgart in pursuit of regular first-team football. The switch proved valuable, as he made 66 Bundesliga appearances, scoring six goals and providing three assists.
In December 2023, he signed for Montpellier after leaving Stuttgart on a free transfer. During his time in Ligue 1, he played 41 matches, adding four goals and an assist. Known for his pace and direct dribbling style, Coulibaly is comfortable operating on either flank and thrives in one-on-one attacking situations.
Why Birmingham City are interested
Birmingham’s current wing options include Keshi Anderson on the left and Demarai Gray on the right. Beyond those starters, depth is limited. Willum Thor Willumsson is more effective centrally, and Scott Wright’s time at the club has been interrupted by injuries.
Coulibaly would offer both competition and flexibility in the attacking unit. His experience across Germany and France adds a level of pedigree that could strengthen Birmingham’s promotion challenge. Furthermore, his age profile fits the club’s recruitment strategy of signing players who can contribute immediately while also retaining future resale value.
Key FotMob Stats – 2024/25 Ligue 1 (Montpellier)
• Appearances: 27
• Goals: 4
• Assists: 0
• Minutes played: 1,978
Per 90 Stats (FootyStats Ligue 1 context):
• Goals per 90: 0.18 (70th percentile)
• Assists per 90: 0.00 (40th percentile)
• Goal Contributions per 90 (G+A): 0.18 (56th percentile)
• Expected Goals (xG) per 90: 0.25 (78th percentile)
• Expected Assists (xA) per 90: 0.08 (18th percentile)
• Cards per 90: 0.36 (87th percentile)
🟦 ZONE RUMOURED
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