Birmingham City look set to secure the signing of Rio Ave defender Jonathan Panzo before tonight’s transfer deadline.
Blues have actively been searching for a left-sided centre-half, and Panzo, previously linked with a move to St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park in the summer of 2023, now appears to be a top target.
Portuguese media are reporting significant progress in Birmingham City’s pursuit of Jonathan Panzo. Cabine Desportiva claim the centre-back is already in England ahead of a deadline-day deal, though few English sources are yet to verify the report according to Birmingham World.
The absence of a left-footed centre-half has been a lingering issue for Chris Davies following Ben Davies’ loan exit. Panzo would offer a ready-made solution if he completes the move, with the 25-year-old approaching his peak after two seasons at Rio Ave and prior Championship experience.
Who is Jonathan Panzo?
The former England Under-21 defender is a product of Chelsea’s academy and began his professional career at AS Monaco, before enjoying a breakthrough spell with Dijon in France. That form earned him a move to Nottingham Forest in 2022.
Panzo struggled for regular opportunities at the City Ground and was instead sent out on loan, with Coventry City making the most of his Championship experience. Later spells at Cardiff City and Standard Liège were less convincing.
Now settled at Rio Ave after making his move permanent last summer, Panzo could nevertheless be on the move again, with a return to English football potentially on the horizon amid reported Birmingham City interest.
What Jonathan Panzo would bring to Birmingham City
Panzo would add balance and composure to Birmingham’s defence, particularly on the left side, improving build-up play and overall structure. His comfort in possession would help Birmingham progress the ball more cleanly from the back and maintain control under pressure.
His arrival would also have a clear knock-on effect for the rest of the defence. With Panzo operating on the left, Christoph Klarer could move back to right centre-back, his preferred position and one in which he looked more assured last season. That natural left-right split would help Birmingham’s ball progression up the pitch.
According to FotMob data from the 2025/26 season, Panzo averaged 1.67 tackles, 1.59 interceptions, 8.27 clearances and 1.25 blocks per 90, showing strong defensive involvement. He wins around 58% of duels and over 70% of aerial battles, highlighting his physical presence, while his 92% pass accuracy with 56% long-ball success shows composure on the ball.
Overall, Panzo would strengthen Birmingham’s defence, providing reliability, physicality, aerial presence, and composure on the ball, making him well suited to the Championship while improving balance at the back for the Blues.
