Two MLS clubs join race for Kieran Gibbs, West Brom defender set to leave – ESPN
MLS duo New York Red Bulls and DC United have joined the hunt to sign West Brom defender Kieran Gibbs, according to ESPN.
The American outlet have reported on their website that the pair are set to rival Inter Miami for the Baggies highest-earning player.
Gibbs can leave The Hawthorns for free in the summer, and Inter Miami are still considered to be the frontrunners for his signature.
Gibbs initially rejected the first contract proposal from David Beckham’s franchise, who are still expected to complete that move over the summer.
The left-backs willingness to open talks with the American club did open the door for others to consider a move for his services.
The defender currently earns up to £70,000-a-week after promotion to the Premier League, and his performances haven’t lived up to that total so far.
We expect this move to be finished soon, although, with two other clubs also about to enter the race, the destination could be unknown.
Townsend clear replacement.
Conor Townsend was rewarded for his great start to the season with a new contract on Friday morning, and he will take up that starting spot.
The 27-year-old has started 10 games this season and is the Baggies’ top performer according to WhoScored’s average match rating system.
Gibbs has only started nine games, but it would have been much fewer should Townsend not have picked up that serious injury over the Christmas period.
The quicker Gibbs’ wages are off the bill, the better.
With Championship football expected next season, the Albion will need players who are desperate to play every week, rather than disappoint and collect wages.
In other West Brom news, Grady Diangana ruled out of Manchester United clash on Sunday