Benito Carbone was today meeting Derby County for talks about a possible move back to the Premiership.

New Derby boss Colin Todd today confirmed that he was keen to take the Italian ace from Bradford City initially on a three-month loan.

Todd said: "Beni is the type of player I want to bring to this club because he can give us much-needed momentum going forward."

City chairman Geoffrey Richmond said: "Carbone's having talks about a three-month loan deal with a view to a permanent transfer.

"Colin Todd rang Jim Jefferies on Tuesday and made the approach. Jefferies had a word with Beni Carbone who was favourably disposed to the idea and it has gone on from there.

"Jim is of the view that although he is a great admirer of Beni Carbone's skills and also of his professional attitude, nevertheless he is an expensive player in wages terms which is publicly known.

"We have never confirmed or denied but I think it is fair to say that the widespread speculation about his wages is correct. And Jim would like to recycle Beni's wages in the event of a permanent transfer into team building because in Jim's words we could bring in five or six players as well as have change. The problem is whether the three-month loan will turn into a permanent transfer."

Carbone was dropped for Tuesday's defeat at Crystal Palace and City boss Jim Jefferies has hinted he would be picking the same side for the trip to Birmingham on Saturday.

Jefferies said: "Leaving Beni out was tactical as it was with Gareth Whalley and Wayne Jacobs. I think it worked well with Robbie Blake and Ashley Ward up front and the performance showed that."

Meanwhile, Peter Atherton, who nearly joined Birmingham at the end of last season, steps up his bid for a first-team return tonight.

The defender, fit again after a knee operation, plays for a youthful-looking reserves against Manchester United at Valley Parade (7pm).

But the game comes too soon for United old boy Lee Sharpe who is still recovering from knee trouble.

Fans are reminded that because of a function in the Sunwin Stand, only the Ciba Stand will be open. Admission is £3 for adults, £1 concessions. Season-ticket holders can go free providing they show their books.