Sky journalist: West Brom make contact over deal to make all-action mid first Allardyce signing
West Brom have reportedly made initial contact over a deal to sign midfielder Olivier Ntcham from Scottish champions Celtic.
According to Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, the Baggies are looking to bring in the Frenchman, but face competition from a number of clubs from his country.
Ntcham has been linked with a move away from Parkhead for some time now, with the Baggies among those eager to sign him during the summer window.
Joseph also reports that Ligue 1 side Brest had a deadline bid rejected for the player.
The player is approaching the final year of his Celtic contract, with his current deal expiring in May 2022.
All-action midfielder would ease the pressure on Pereira
Ntcham would be a fantastic addition if the Baggies could get a deal over the line during the January window.
As he nears 150 appearances for Celtic, he has 24 goals and 13 assists during that time for the Hoops.
The French-born midfielder is neither an out-an-out creative player like a Matheus Pereira nor a defensive one, but with 13 yellow cards throughout his Celtic career, he knows how to put his foot in when needed.
However, any move for Ntcham could hint at a more attacking approach from Sam Allardyce, who would have two very capable attacking midfielders in his ranks.
At 24 years of age, Ntcham would be arriving with a huge amount of experience under his belt as well – having played in Europe with Celtic.
Despite his tender age, he has nearly 200 club appearances under his belt and is a former French U-21 international.
In other West Brom news, Adrian Clarke blasts Allardyce ahead of West Brom clash v Arsenal
Be sure to follow West Brom News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Baggies and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Phillips.