Bilic confirms new addition to have West Brom medical today
Slaven Bilic has confirmed that Branislav Ivanovic is having a medical at West Brom today (Friday).
The ex-Chelsea defender has been linked with a move to The Hawthorns in recent days, with the Serb available on a free after his contract with Russian side Zenit St Petersburg expired this summer.
Joseph Masi, West Bromwich Albion reporter for the Express and Star, stated on his Twitter account that Bilic said in today’s press conference that Ivanovic was having a medical.
Earlier on Friday, Rob Dorsett of Sky Sports said that the 36-year-old Serbian could sign for the Baggies before Sunday’s game against Leicester, it now looks as if that report was spot on.
Ivanovic is arriving on a free transfer, which will suit the Baggies, as their transfer budget took a hit following the permanent signing of Grady Diangana from West Ham.
With Bilic’s transfer priority lying with securing the services of a new striker, reportedly Karlan Grant who will cost around £16 million, the Baggies can’t afford to be spending much money on other reinforcements.
Ivanovic may be signed by Sunday, but that would probably be a bit early for Baggies fans to watch the one-time Champions League winner in action, as he will have had very little time to train and get acquainted with the rest of the squad.
The three-time Premier League winner will probably act as back-up to Darnell Furlong, who is currently the only recognised right back at the club, following the departure of Nathan Ferguson to Crystal Palace.
In other West Brom news, Richard Keys has tipped Bilic to leave The Hawthorns before Christmas.
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