West Brom are in hot pursuit of Arsenal right-back Carl Jenkinson, but Unai Emery has decided that he wants the defender to fight for his place at the Emirates, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper claims that Burnley and Ipswich have also shown “strong interest” in signing the 26-year-old on loan this month, but it now appears as though they will be missing out on him.
Jenkinson has made just five appearances in all competitions for the Gunners this term but Hector Bellerin’s season-ending injury blow could mean that the ex-Birmingham loanee can get back into Emery’s first team plans.
Good move for West Brom?
Darren Moore has had issues with the right-back position this season but he appears to have made a good signing by getting Mason Holgate in on loan from Everton to play there.
Tosin Adarabioyo has been played out of his comfort zone in that position until this month and back-up right-back Tyrone Mears is out of contract at the end of the month.
Jenkinson would a good replacement for Mears if he isn’t handed a new deal, but it seems as though Albion will be missing out on the one-time England international anyway.
This is Futbol rating 7/10
Likely to happen?
Emery has reportedly made his decision on Jenkinson, and it is not good news for West Brom, Burnley or Ipswich.
Bellerin’s injury blow has handed Jenkinson a real shot to salvage his Arsenal career, and he is unlikely to want a move away from North London now that he has this opportunity.
The Baggies need to look elsewhere if they want another right-back.
This is Futbol rating 2/10