Kevin Phillips backs West Brom swoop to sign USA striker Daryl Dike
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Kevin Phillips has backed West Brom to make a move to sign Orlando City striker Daryl Dike before the transfer window closes.
Dike, 21, played for Valerien Ismael on loan at Barnsley last season, netting nine times in 22 appearances for the Tykes after joining them in the winter.
The Express & Star reports that Ismael is keen on re-signing the USA international as he aims to add a new striker to the Baggies squad before the transfer deadline passes on August 31.
It is understood that any deal for Dike would be an initial loan with the option for a permanent transfer if Albion win promotion back to the Premier League this season.
Ex-West Brom striker Phillips would be happy if his former club signed Dike due to the fact he’s already proven he can perform for Ismael in the Championship.
Speaking to West Brom News, Super Kev said: “It always helps when a manager knows a player.
“He’s been scoring goals and he’s a good player striker.
“Dike could come in and get settled straight away because he knows the manager, he knows the system.
“It’s not a no-brainer but if you can get it done for reasonable money, from the manager’s point of view, you know you’re getting a player who knows the ins and outs of how you work.
“That can sometimes give you a slight edge whereas another time you might bring another player in, they may have to adjust to a different system and way of playing. It could take time.
“Dike would be an interesting one but would I say go for him over Andre Gray? I think the fact he’s worked with Ismael, that could make him a preferred option.”
Dike is yet to play for Orlando City since his loan spell at Barnsley ended due to being involved for the USA national team in their North American Gold Cup success.
The ex-Tykes loan star scored two goals in his five appearances at the Gold Cup and played in every match except for the final, when the Americans beat Mexico 1-0 after extra time in Nevada.
In other West Brom news, Albion could still swoop in to sign this Premier League goalscorer on loan this month.
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