West Brom in talks to sign Celtic star defender with Parkhead exit on the cards – report
West Brom have held talks about a potential deal to sign Celtic centre-back Kristoffer Ajer this summer, according to The Athletic.
The news outlet reports that the Baggies have shown “some interest” in the 22-year-old defender, who’s made 132 appearances in all competitions for the Bhoys in the last four years and won two domestic trebles.
It is understood that Ajer could exit Parker this summer and might be seen by West Brom as an alternative to Shane Duffy, who they appear to be missing out on as he reportedly heads to Celtic.
However, it is understood that a “straight cash” deal for Ajer is unlikely as the Norway international will cost the Baggies an eight-figure fee.
Liverpool and AC Milan are among the clubs who have been linked with a move for Ajer this summer with the Sunday Post reporting in July that Celtic have rejected a bid worth £13.5million from Milan for the 6ft 5 defender.
West Brom must add to their defensive options before the start of next season.
Kyle Bartley and Ahmed Hegazi had inconsistent spells alongside Semi Ajayi at centre-back in the Championship and Ajer could be a very good fit to partner Ajayi in the heart of Slaven Bilic’s defence.
According to stats by WyScout, Ajer [79.3%] won a higher percentage of defensive duels in the league than Bartley [71.9%] and Hegazi [65.3%] last season.
The Norway international [68.4%] also won a higher percentage of aerial duels than Hegazi [63.2%] and also averaged way more passes than both the Baggies defenders.
Ajer would be an upgrade on what West Brom have and it also helps that he’s just 22-years-old.
Despite being young, the former IK Start defender has experience of winning trophies, playing in the Champions League and playing in one of the most physical leagues in Europe.
He’d be a great fit for West Brom but, unfortunately, the club’s low transfer budget mean it’s likely Bilic and Luke Dowling will miss out on another one of their targets.
In other West Brom news, Kaveh Solhekol has said how many new signings Bilic wants to make before the season kicks off next month.
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