Birmingham City told not to exceed £5m for Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt

Birmingham City's reported interest in Leeds United forward Joe Gelhardt has been backed, but the Championship club have also been warned against exceeding a £5 million transfer fee for the versatile attacker.

Gelhardt has emerged as a target after falling out of favour at Elland Road, with the 24-year-old entering the final year of his contract following a productive 18-month loan spell at Hull City.

While reports have suggested Leeds could be willing to sell Gelhardt for around £3 million, there remains uncertainty over his valuation.

Speaking to Football League World, Birmingham fan pundit Jason Moore insisted the Blues should not be drawn into overpaying, even if they are convinced the former England youth international can strengthen Chris Davies' squad.

"If Leeds turn around and say that they want £5 million for him, I think, yeah, pay that."

"He's a proven Championship player, but as good as he was at Hull last season, he's had one decent season in the league."

"£5 million is the maximum I'd say for it. Anything more than £5 million and I think I'd be looking elsewhere."

Moore also suggested Birmingham's spending this summer indicates the club may not possess the transfer budget many supporters initially expected.

Gelhardt has enhanced his reputation during two loan spells at Hull, scoring 20 goals and registering five assists across 64 appearances.

Capable of playing as a central striker, second forward or on either flank, his versatility makes him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen multiple attacking positions with one signing.

With just one year remaining on his Leeds contract, the transfer fee is unlikely to be the biggest obstacle, although his wages could prove a greater challenge for Championship suitors.

Despite Birmingham's interest, Hull City remain the player's preferred destination after two successful loan spells in East Yorkshire.

That familiarity could give the newly-promoted Premier League club an advantage if they decide to formalise their interest.

However, Birmingham may still believe they can offer Gelhardt the regular first-team football he needs at this stage of his career after spending much of his Leeds spell as a squad player.

Leeds United are expected to decide Gelhardt's future before the transfer window closes as they look to avoid losing him for nothing next summer. Birmingham and Hull could both step up their interest in the coming weeks, although any deal is likely to depend on agreeing personal terms as much as the transfer fee itself.