‘Fantastic deal’ – Exclusive: Kevin Phillips blown away by West Brom transfer
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 is “delighted” that West Brom have finally confirmed that Matheus Pereira has signed a permanent deal with the club.
Albion announced on Monday that the 24-year-old has signed a four-year deal at The Hawthorns after his loan deal was turned into a permanent one for a reported fee of £8.25million.
Pereira took the Championship by storm last season, assisting more goals than any other player [20] and scoring eight goals in 42 league appearances.
Ex-West Brom forward Phillips admits he breathed a big sigh of relief after hearing Pereira’s permanent deal was made official by the club and cannot wait to see how he does in the Premier League next season.
“I’m sure Slaven Bilic, his staff and every West Brom supporter think he’s been one of the stand-out players of the season – for me, he was the stand-out player,” Phillips told West Brom News.
“To tie him down to a long-term contract and for the sort of money, it’s a fantastic deal for everyone concerned.
“From watching a lot of West Brom games last season, it looked like he really enjoyed playing for the team and Slaven Bilic.
“I’m sure he can’t wait for when supporters come back into the stadium so that he can showcase his skills in the Premier League.
“I’m delighted he’s signed and I’m sure every fan will be as well.”
Pereira, if anything, found the Championship too easy at times last season.
Look at his performances against Swansea and Hull in which he assisted six goals, for example.
It is going to be a big step up for him to play in the Premier League as the Baggies will see a lot less of the ball than they did in the Championship.
As such, Pereira needs to be more efficient when he does have the ball and make every bit of possession count.
In other West Brom news, the club has confirmed a pre-season friendly will take place next week.
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