West Brom are in hot pursuit of Swansea centre-back Kyle Bartley and are trying to sign the £4million-rated ace this summer, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper claimed via their live transfer blog on Thursday [06:27pm] that Leeds United and Birmingham City are also interested in snapping up the 6ft 4in (transfermarkt) colossus in this transfer window.
It is understood that the Baggies are “desperate” for cover in defence following the exits of Jonny Evans and Gareth McAuley, Craig Dawson handing in a transfer request and details of Ahmed Hegazi’s £10million release clause coming to light.
Bartley signed a new deal at Swansea a year ago, which according to statistics website Spotrac sees him earn £28,000-a-week.
Good move for West Brom?
Bartley did not play much for Swansea in the Premier League last season due to injury as the Welsh club joined West Brom in relegation to the Championship.
Had he have been able to play more than just 12 times in all competitions, the Swans’ chances of survival would have surely been boosted.
Bartley proved during a loan spell at Leeds in 2016/17 that he is a very good centre-back and could even be a potential captain for the Baggies if they were to snap him up this summer.
£4million is a very low fee considering Evans joined Leicester for just £1million less.
Darren Moore should definitely look to get this deal done as soon as possible.
This is Futbol rating 9/10
Likely to happen?
Moore will know that he needs defenders signed up soon because all four of his centre-back options from last season could be gone in a matter of weeks.
Bartley may be tempted to return to Leeds or play for his former manager at Elland Road Garry Monk, who is now with
Going solely off that, it’s likely that West Brom would be last in the race for his signature at the moment but the increased odds of promotion could see a move materialise.
This is Futbol rating 3/10