Birmingham goalkeeper Jack Butland may be sold by the club, unless Gianni Paladini completes a successful takeover at the club, according to the Daily Mail.

Premier League duo Southampton and Liverpool are said to monitoring the situation of the young stopper and could launch moves if the Italian’s proposal fails.

With money tight, the St Andrew’s-based outfit may be forced to sell their prize asset to ease financial worries, unless they receive a cash injection which would likely follow the potential takeover.

If they do fall into the hands of new owners, the Midlanders would be in a strong position to rebuff the advances of the top-tier duo, unless Butland actively pursues a move.

The Saints offered a reported £6m for the 20-year-old during the summer, however the bid was dismissed by the club who see him as key in their hopes achieving promotion.

Paladini’s initial £20m offer for control of the club is being considered by owner Carson Yeung and the former QPR chief executive is confident that it will be accepted:

“We want to get a deal done very soon because we don't want to lose any players in January.

“I am hopeful that we can get something agreed within the next ten days.

“I still believe Birmingham can reach the play-offs and our intention is to sign four or five players in the transfer window to strengthen.”