West Brom contract update as Erik Pieters set to depart with no agreement finalised
West Brom defender Erik Pieters looks set to depart The Hawthorns this summer, with no agreement finalised over a potential new contract, according to Birmingham World.
The 34-year-old emerged as a pivotal figure at centre-back for Carlos Corberan last season, featuring in 36 Championship games as the Baggies only just fell short of a play-off place on the final day.
The veteran Dutchman was the only out-of-contract senior player to be offered a new deal by boss Corberan when West Brom announced their retained list on 23 May, with Jake Livermore, Tom Rogic and Kean Bryan all departing at the end of their contracts.
And according to Birmingham World [31 May], Pieters may yet follow the trio out of the West Brom exit doors, with no agreement over a new deal finalised despite the club revealing talks had begun [BBC Sport, 23 May].
“West Bromwich Albion defender Erik Pieters sees his contract at The Hawthorns expire next month and he is set to leave unless a new deal can be agreed,” the report reads.
“The Baggies confirmed last week that they are in talks with the Dutchman but nothing has been finalised as things stand.”
Extension won’t hurt
With the financial difficulties West Brom are experiencing at boardroom level, coupled with a reduction in the parachute payments they will receive and failure to secure promotion, the upcoming months are fraught with danger for the Baggies.
And one of those key issues that will arise for Corberan and his team is the issue of funds to spend during the upcoming summer window.
If West Brom aren’t able to spend any cash, then their hopes of another promotion push are in serious danger.
Some of the club’s big hitters may be sold to raise funds and Corberan may have to start blooding the Baggies’ younger talent next term, should the worst happen.
However, finding a new deal for Pieters certainly won’t hurt one bit, as his experience, leadership and quality despite his veteran years could yet prove vital for Corberan next season.
The 34-year-old still has plenty to offer West Brom in the Championship next season. The club would be silly not to have something finalised in the next few weeks, especially given the danger of losing some of their key stars.
In other West Brom news, Carlton Palmer gave his reaction to the Baggies being linked to Blackpool striker Jerry Yates.