Mauro Zarate could reamin on loan at Birmingham next season, according to the Argentine striker's agent.

The youngster has impressed for Blues in recent matches after moving to St Andrews from Qatari club Al-Sadd in January.

Reports suggest Al-Sadd want in the region of £20million to make the deal permanent, while Zarate's agent Christian Otero claims there are other clubs interested.

Otero also acknowledged that talking with Birmingham remains the priority and Zarate has confirmed he is keen to stay with Alex McLeish's side.

With Al-Sadd's demands potentially out of Blues' reach, Otero admits another loan agreement is one option which could be discussed.

"The Qataris want more than they paid for him, but another loan deal might be possible," Otero told the Daily Mirror.

"It is not easy, but Birmingham have priority as they have given Mauro a chance and he is comfortable with the manager Alex McLeish.

"Mauro has captured the attention of other clubs as people can see he will be a top, top player."

Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur are among the teams to have been linked with Zarate, who has scored three goals in his last two games.

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