West Brom in talks over loan-to-buy deal for 24-year-old who Bilic loves – report
West Brom are in talks over re-signing Filip Krovinovic on loan with the option of a permanent transfer next summer, according to the Express & Star.
Portuguese newspaper Record had reported that Benfica rejected an attempt by the Baggies to sign Krovinovic, 24, on loan for a second season in a row after the Croatian midfielder impressed at The Hawthorns in the Championship.
However, it seems that Albion are continuing to pursue an initial temporary deal for Krovinovic which would become permanent if they avoid relegation in their first season back in the Premier League.
West Brom manager Slaven Bilic has already declared his interest in re-signing his fellow Croatian this summer.
As quoted by the Express & Star in April, Bilic said: “For me, he is undoubtedly a very important player in our team, but he will also depend on Benfica.
“If you ask me if I want to be with Filip. We love him, he loves being here and, if everything run well, we will end the season where we want to end and we will negotiate with Benfica.”
Of course, West Brom have now opened those talks with Benfica but the Portuguese club do not seem intent on letting Krovinovic go unless they can sell him permanently.
Albion’s attempt to re-sign him on loan was described as “cheeky” by one supporter on Twitter but it was certainly worth a try.
We don’t see why Benfica would reject a loan-to-buy offer for Krovinovic this summer though – unless they are desperate for cash right now.
There’s a chance that the midfielder could stay at Estadio da Luz too.
Benfica have had a change in management over the past few weeks with Jorge Jesus replacing Bruno Lage at the helm.
Lage sanctioned Krovinovic’s loan exit last summer after failing to see a spot for him in his plans but with Jesus, that could change.
In other West Brom news, Albion chiefs have held talks over signing this Croatia international who Bilic has previously managed.
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