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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has engaged in surprising talks about returning to English football with a Championship club, aiming to reunite with his fiancée, Little Mix star Perrie Edwards, after nearly a decade of being apart due to his overseas career.
Following his departure from Turkish side Besiktas, where he spent two seasons hampered by injuries and limited playing opportunities, Oxlade-Chamberlain is proactively seeking to revive his career back in England. Despite having signed a contract extension with Besiktas in 2023, the midfielder and the club mutually agreed to terminate the deal earlier this summer, making him a free agent ready for a new challenge.[1]
Birmingham City is reportedly leading the race to sign the 32-year-old, viewing him as a key asset to bolster their push for promotion to the Premier League. The club’s ambitious ownership partnership, featuring chairman Tom Wagner and NFL legend Tom Brady as part-owner, enhances their appeal to Oxlade-Chamberlain. His extensive Premier League experience, versatility in midfield, and leadership qualities make him an attractive target for Birmingham’s campaign to attain back-to-back promotions from League One to the top flight.[2][3]
Adding a personal dimension to this potential move is Perrie Edwards' intention to split her time between England and Turkey, which aligns with Oxlade-Chamberlain’s desire to return home. This reunion after nine years apart has been described as a major factor motivating his transfer considerations.[2]
With the transfer window still open, negotiations are anticipated to progress quickly. Besiktas appears willing to release Oxlade-Chamberlain on a free transfer despite having a year left on his contract.[3] Birmingham City remains optimistic that their strong start to the Championship season and financial backing will secure his signature, offering him a platform to reignite his career in familiar surroundings.[2][3]
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