Bruce ready to talk over new deal

Bruce, who guided City back into the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt in May, has two years remaining of his current contract. But further discussions are being put on the back burner until the future of the club is resolved with Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung having until July 16 to buy a 29.9% stake in the club for around £15 million.

Bruce said: "There has been discussions. I have spoken to the club about a new deal. But with all the takeover talks, it has been put on the back burner for now. I've got two years left of my current contract. Would I sign another one? I've been here six years as a manager and two as a player so, yes, of course I would be interested but we will see."

He added: "Like I said, talks are ongoing but, with the takeover situation, it has been put on ice."

Bruce is trying to concentrate on footballing matters until it becomes established whether Yeung will firm up his interest in Birmingham and eventually launch a bid to take complete control.

He said: "I've had no communication at all with Carson Yeung.

"If he buys the club, then I'll obviously have to speak to him but until that happens, I'm just going to focus on bringing in a few other players if possible and see what develops."

Bruce has already signed seven players during the summer and confirmed he has made a bid for West Ham defender Paul Konchesky.

Blues have offered £2million but the Hammers want around double that amount for the former England left-back.

He said: "It is not for me to talk about players but Paul Konchesky is someone we are looking at. We put a bid in about three weeks ago and that hasn't changed. It is fair to say our valuations are a bit apart at the moment."