OPINION
With Sam Byram’s future at West Ham unclear, West Brom must look to sign the defender this summer.
As reported by Football.London, the right-back could be sold permanently or given a loan move away this summer.
This is great news for West Brom because they desperately need a new right-back and Byram would be a great addition to the side. The Baggies currently have Allan Nyom and Craig Dawson as options in that position, but with Dawson keen to play centrally and looking likely to leave the club this summer, Nyom is the only real competition.
However, the Cameroonian defender isn’t what Albion need this season. He’s a defensive full-back who doesn’t contribute much in the attacking phase. In the Championship, Darren Moore’s side are going to be on the attack in the majority of their games, which is why Nyom won’t be a good option.
That’s where Byram comes in. The 24-year-old thrives in that role and is able to provide a good attacking outlet on the right-wing. He joined The Hammers from Leeds United in 2016 but has never really been able to hold down a starting position under any of West Ham’s recent managers.
Albion boss Darren Moore loves working with young talent, he would give Byram every opportunity to hold down a place in the squad at The Hawthorns. A move to the Midlands would help get his career back on track and he would be able to improve his game with regular minutes on the pitch.
Both a permanent deal or a loan would suit West Brom, as they’ll have a number of departures before the end of the window and should be able to afford either. Byram should leave West Ham for the good of his career, with West Brom a good opportunity to get regular football.