Johannesburg - Katlego Mphela and Siphiwe Tshabalala could find themselves playing together for more than just the national team in August.

The Bafana Bafana duo are club rivals with 'Killer' turning out for Mamelodi Sundowns, while 'Shabba' marauds up the left wing for Kaizer Chiefs.

However, with the striker and midfielder both garnering interest from Birmingham City, they could be representing the same side when the English Premier League season kicks off.

Alex McLeish faces stiff competition from Bolton for Mphela's services, while Wigan are also tracking Tshabalala.

The Sundowns striker seemed to be the Blues' main target, but with the Brazilians seeking a big payout, Mphela's dream move could fall through.

McLeish is refusing to unnecessarily break the bank for players, telling his side's official website: "With some players it's quite difficult to get over the line because of the prices that some clubs are asking for them.

"Of course they're entitled to ask what they want, but we're not quite meeting their valuations.

"But we will keep persevering until we've gone as far as we think we can go and then if it doesn't happen we'll look to 'Plan B'."

Sundowns have reiterated that they will only release Mphela if they feel the price is right, while Tshabalala is highly valued by Amakhosi.