Birmingham target Ritchie De Laet loan

Birmingham City boss Chris Hughton is reportedly targeting Manchester United defender Ritchie De Laet for a loan move.

De Laet recently returned to Old Trafford after a loan spell at Norwich City was cut short due to injury.

The Belgian international made just three appearances for the Canaries in what was meant to be a season-long loan.

Hughton is said to be keen to bring in a defender due to full-back Stephen Carr's persistent knee problem.

Birmingham are currently fifth in the Championship, eight points off leaders Southampton.