‘I’m sorry but…’ – Exclusive: Pundit suggests West Brom may beat Celtic in race to sign 22y/o
We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…
Kevin Phillips believes that West Brom loanee Grady Diangana would snub interest from Celtic and Rangers in favour of playing in the Premier League.
The Sun reported earlier this week that Celtic and Ajax are keen on signing the 22-year-old winger from West Ham once his loan deal at The Hawthorns expires.
The Herald reported after that Rangers have been in contact with Diangana’s representatives about a move north of the border after almost signing him on loan from the Hammers last year before he eventually joined the Baggies.
West Brom are also said to be interested in extending Diangana’s stay at The Hawthorns and if Albion win promotion, Phillips believes that they would win the race for the attacker due to him wanting to play in the Premier League.
“I’ve always said I will never criticise Scottish football but if you’ve got the chance to stay at the club you’ve helped get promoted, and go to play in the Premier League over the Scottish Premiership, I’m sorry but the Premier League wins hands down,” Phillips told West Brom News.
“I’m sure the player, at this stage of his career, would rather play in the English Premier League.
“He clearly looks like he’s enjoying the football at West Brom.”
Diangana more than likely joined West Brom so that he could improve his chances of getting first-team football at West Ham in the Premier League.
But, if the Hammers cannot guarantee him the amount of game-time he desires, he may pursue options elsewhere and The Hawthorns is the most obvious place for him to do that.
Celtic and Rangers may be able to tempt Diangana with European football and a guarantee of winning silverware – but loads of teams outside of England can do that.
In other West Brom news, Hal Robson-Kanu has sent a message to this Leeds player after Albion’s loss handed the Whites promotion.
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