Newcastle and Burnley are both keeping tabs on Kyle Bartley’s situation at West Brom ahead of a possible summer move, according to Telegraph Sport.
The 29-year old was set to become a free agent when his contract expires this summer, however Steve Madeley of The Athletic reported last month that the Baggies had extended his current deal by 12 months.
However he could still leave the Midlands outfit this summer if Albion fail to avoid relegation, with several clubs eyeing his services.
Bartley has been an ever present fixture at the back for West Brom since Sam Allardyce succeeded Slaven Bilic in December, and the Albion manager has come to rely on his defensive qualities often this season.
Having helped his side to three clean sheets in their last five games, Albion won’t be especially keen to see the centre-back depart at the end of the season.
Telegraph Sport report that Burnley have identified Bartley as potential cover for primary centre-back duo Ben Mee and James Tarkowski, while Newcastle also want to bolster their backline.
Experience lost
West Brom would be much better off keeping Bartley at the Hawthorns beyond the current season, supposing that they could convince him to tackle the Championship once again.
Since he broke back into the side Bartley has been a huge asset for Allardyce, both as someone who organises the backline and as someone who can pose a goal threat from set pieces.
One player isn’t enough to prevent a Premier League club from meeting the drop, however his defensive influence could prove crucial in Albion’s plans to earn an immediate return to the top flight.
Bartley has experience of the Championship and given his current run of form he could be just the man to lead from the back and help the club get back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Unfortunately for Albion, his form has seen him attract attention that could very well sway him from the Midlands.
In other West Brom news, Kevin Phillips claims Sam Allardyce will “step aside” as West Brom manager at the end of the season following relegation.
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.