Middlesbrough have joined West Brom in the hunt to sign Crystal Palace right-back Joel Ward on loan before the end of August, according to Sun reporter Alan Nixon.
The reliable journalist claimed via his personal Twitter account on Sunday that both Boro and the Baggies are “in for” the 28-year-old defender, who has over 150 Premier League appearances to his name from spells with Portsmouth and Palace.
It is understood that Middlesbrough boss Tony Pulis knows the 6ft 1in (transfermarkt) right-back well, which could potentially put the Teessiders at an advantage over West Brom.
Good move for West Brom?
Darren Moore ought to have a right-back lined up to arrive in the coming days after letting Allan Nyom join Leganes on loan earlier this week.
It leaves Albion without a recognised right-back, however Craig Dawson and Tosin Adarabioyo can play there.
Ward would be a quality signing if they were able to pry him away from Palace as so far this season the ex-Portsmouth man has just been an unused substitute.
He would bring a lot of experience and should flourish in the Championship.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
Middlesbrough’s interest in Ward is an issue for West Brom.
Ward is the kind of player who Pulis loves as he is a full-back that is over six foot tall and due to the fact that he has managed him before, it could put Boro in pole position for the 28-year-old’s signature.
The Baggies will have to move quick to sign him but because Nyom has already been allowed to leave, there could be something already in the pipeline, whether it is for Ward or someone else.
This is Futbol rating 6/10