Karlsson, a former Wolverhampton rider, will share one of the team places with Ben Barker and will double-up with Premier League Leicester.

And Brummies boss Graham Drury says Karlsson will be a valuable member of his squad despite starting the season behind Barker.

Drury said: "Magnus will very much be second choice for this role behind Ben Barker but I'm thinking he can do a job for us and then become first choice for the 2013 season.

"I've seen him ride Perry Barr superbly in the past when he was with Scunthorpe and I've got no doubt he can do a solid job for us when we call on him.

"He will be a valuable member of the squad without a doubt. He has a job to do for us when he's called upon and he fully understands and accepts the situation which is great for us.

"He's been very sensible about things. He will be at our press and practice on March 15 and he will be made to feel part of the squad. We welcome him to Birmingham after my failure to sign him in the past!"