Former West Brom winger Kyle Edwards has opened talks over a move to Celtic, which could in turn see the Baggies receive a compensation package after his deal expired [Football Insider].
The Lowdown: Baggies gear up for 2021/22 as incomings and outgoings expected
Looking ahead to 2021/22, newly appointed boss Valerien Ismael will be under no illusions about the scale of incomings and outgoings at the Hawthorns this summer.
One man who will not be returning to the West Midlands is 23-year-old Edwards. Despite this, he could now be set to pitch in some funds for his former club in a surprise turn of events.
Should West Brom have given Edwards an extension?
Yes
No
The Latest: Departee Edwards could net West Brom six-figure compensation fee
Presently speaking, Celtic have entered discussions with a view to bringing the Englishman north of the border under freedom of contract, a Hoops source told Football Insider.
Edwards left the Baggies following a 17 year association with the club at the end of last month, as he was not named on their 2021/22 retained list due to not agreeing an extension with the Sky Bet Championship outfit [Express and Star].
Now looking to the next step in his career, his next move will not be a free transfer due to his lengthy spell in the West Bromwich Albion academy. Owing to lenient cross-border rules, Scottish giants Celtic would have to pay around £300,000 for his services [Football Insider].
The Verdict: Parting ways is the right decision for both player and club
All things considered, the decision for Edwards and West Brom to part ways is probably the right one for both parties.
Though the Dudley-born wide man is a talented asset who is capable of beating a man, he has struggled for game-time in previous seasons. In 2020/21, he made just seven first-team appearances, recording two assists [Transfermarkt].
Across his time with the Baggies, he has made a decent impact though, recording nine goal contributions within 49 outings; four goals and five assists [Transfermarkt], but a switch to pastures new may give Edwards the correct platform to excel as a footballer.
From the Hawthorns point of view, receiving a £300,000 boost to their transfer kitty for a player who was surplus to requirements and out of contract is a handy boost as well – this feels like a win win.
In other news, West Brom have been linked with a free agent striker.
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