Alex McLeish today admitted he is “doubtful” Birmingham will land Standard Liege striker Milan Jovanovic.

Blues, who face Wolves tomorrow, are expected to have significant funds available in January following Carson Yeung’s takeover at St Andrew’s and boss McLeish confirmed the Serb, 28, is on his radar.

However, the Scot conceded he expects Jovanovic, who has starred in the Champions League this season, to have a host of admirers and has played down Blues’ chances of completing a deal.

He said: “I’ve always admired Jovanovic but whether he is a player that can come here or not remains to be seen. I am sure he has got many admirers.

“From the fans’ perspective, it is brilliant to see us linked to players like that but I don’t want to disappoint the fans.

“I can name another six big names that would really excite them but, if you don’t get them, then you disappoint people.

“We will see if something can be done there (with Jovanovic). I don’t know. It is doubtful.”

McLeish says his players will be heading into Molineux in “bullish” mood after taking eight points from their last four games.

He said: “We are bullish about going to Wolves but we were bullish about going to Manchester United and Tottenham, but maybe there was less pressure in those games.”