Kevin Phillips: Ismael could persuade Bartley to stay at West Brom
We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…
Valerien Ismael could persuade Kyle Bartley to stay at West Brom by promising he’ll be allowed to leave next summer, according to Kevin Phillips.
Bartley, 30, has less than a year left on his contract at The Hawthorns and has been attracting attention from clubs in the Premier League.
While Newcastle have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign the defender [Telegraph], Crystal Palace have also been linked with a £3million move [Telegraph].
Bartley was West Brom’s best centre-back last season in the Premier League and showed a lot of improvement under Sam Allardyce’s reign in charge.
Phillips feels the ex-Swansea man could play a big role next season in the Championship if he stays.
Speaking to West Brom News, the ex-Albion striker said: “If he doesn’t get a move I think he would crack on and be a vital member of the squad as he has been all season.
“I talk about business, if the manager can persuade him to stay for another season – maybe with that promise he can go next season – then that would be a great bit of business.”
Bartley has played 105 times in all competitions since joining West Brom from Swansea in 2018.
Last term, he scored three goals in 30 Premier League outings, one of which being a winner against Brighton.
Matt Clarke has joined Albion on loan from Brighton this summer, adding to Ismael’s centre-back options.
If Bartley does leave, Ismael will still have Clarke, Semi Ajayi, Dara O’Shea and Cedric Kipre to choose from.
In other West Brom news, Albion are trying to sign an available player who impressed Darren Moore.
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