Bayern Munich deal done, China U20 transfer - Birmingham City's Championship rivals make moves

The transfer window officially opens on Monday, 15th June, but business is already beginning to take shape across the Championship. Things remain quiet at Birmingham City for now, with Craig Gardner reportedly set to leave the club one hopes activity is continuing behind the scenes, but ambitious sides such as Southampton and Burnley have already secured deals. Here's a round-up of the latest transfer developments from across the second tier. Southampton have announced the permanent capture of Daniel Peretz from Bayern Munich, with the goalkeeper putting pen to paper on a four-year deal.

Peretz initially arrived at St Mary's on loan in January and made an impression as the Saints embarked on a 21-match unbeaten streak, recording eight clean sheets as they progressed to the Championship play-off final. However, the 25 year old never got the opportunity to compete in that final, or for the chance to feature in the Premier League next season, as Tonda Eckert's team was expelled for spying on opponents. Peretz, who served as back-up to Manuel Neuer at Bayern, also played his part in the club's journey to the FA Cup semi-finals and now commits his future until at least 2030. Peretz told the club website: "For the last few months this was my home and we had so many good times, and also some tense times, but even in the last few weeks with how we stayed together you could really feel this home environment.

"That was, for me, the deal-breaker. Yes, it is my dream to play in the Premier League and on the highest stages in the world, but a bigger dream for me is to be there with Southampton. I really believe that we can be there and achieve that." Relegated Burnley have bolstered their Under-21 ranks with the addition of Jiaming Zhang on a one-year deal. The 19 year old previously featured for Chinese second-tier side Liaoning Tieren before earning an invitation to Bayern Munich's World Squad Initiative a year ago.

His journey then took him to Serbian club FK Voždovac, where he managed three goals in four matches for their Under-19 side. The China U20 international will now aim to further his progress at Turf Moor and commented: "I've played in Serbia for the last six months, and I think that playing in Europe is quite challenging. "I wouldn't say I'm a traditional kind of striker. I like to be flexible and move around the pitch, coming back to help defend as well as organising the team's attacks going forwards.

"I spoke to the coaches when I was on trial, mainly around tactics and how the league works here. Hopefully, I can play during the pre-season period and continue to learn the game." Sheffield United are preparing for renewed interest in England Under-21 midfielder Sydie Peck, with another club reportedly entering the fray.

According to the Sheffield Star, West Ham United have had their eye on the midfielder since January, and should they offload Mateus Fernandes as anticipated this summer, they'll have sufficient funds to put forward an attractive bid for the 21 year old. The Star also notes that Nottingham Forest and Brentford have shown interest, while Peck remains tied to Bramall Lane until at least 2028, with a potential further 12 months available through a clause in his current deal. Sinclair Armstrong is set to depart Bristol City, with the forward poised to officially join Turkish Süper Lig outfit Göztepe following two years at Ashton Gate. He leaves having netted seven goals in 83 appearances across all competitions.

Taking to his Instagram story, he wrote: "Bristol City, thank you. I want to start off by saying that I am very grateful to have played for this football club. "From the first day I walked in, everyone made me feel so welcome. To the City fans, thank you for putting up with me time and time again. [I'm] very thankful for the support during the ups and downs.

"To everyone associated with Bristol City, thank you. I wish the club nothing but the best. #UpTheCity." Arsenal have entered into negotiations with Leicester City over teenage sensation Jeremy Monga, according to London reports. The Standard claims the Gunners have had their sights set on the 16 year old for some months, with talks held 'between the relevant parties'. The Foxes dropped down to League One last season.

The Premier League champions are believed to have been monitoring the winger's progress for a 'prolonged period' and are now reportedly poised to make their move for a player who has been shattering records since breaking into the first team. Monga, who is set to turn professional on his 17th birthday next month, became the second youngest Premier League player in history at just 15 years and 271 days old when he featured against Newcastle two seasons ago. He also holds the record as the youngest ever goal-scorer in Championship history, having netted against Preston last August at a mere 16 years and 37 days old. Even prior to these achievements, the youngster was said to be attracting interest from the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United, but it now appears Arsenal have made their move.