Journalist moots loan exit for West Brom striker Reyes Cleary in January
West Brom academy graduate Reyes Cleary could be up for a loan exit in the January transfer window, according to Joe Chapman.
The Birmingham Live local journalist (14 December) shared in his article the list of West Brom players whose contracts are running to a close next summer and beyond with Cleary’s set to expire in June 2024.
The 19-year-old forward was an instant hit during the 2022/23 campaign, scoring 19 goals for Richard Beale’s PL2 side as well as making five appearances across three different competitions for Corberan’s team before suffering a long-term injury absence after a serious hamstring injury towards the back end of last season.
Manager Carlos Corberan admitted back in October (via Birmingham Live, 20 October) that he had the intention to loan out Cleary before he suffered the January but that may well be a possibility according to Chapman.
Best route
The West Brom teenager was certainly making giant progress before his injury setback in April showcasing why he is arguably one of the biggest talents at the club.
19 goals last season for the Under-21s is a stunning record, one which could well be translated at a higher level if given the opportunity and confidence from his manager.
A loan move would have certainly been ideal for Cleary, to develop and refine his game but also further his development, something West Brom could well have benefitted from in the long haul.
However, his injury in April was a crucial blow for him given the giant strides he made last season but as is the case with plenty of footballers these days, injuries are certainly a learning curve and will be for Cleary.
Hopefully, he can use the setback as fuel to further his development and learning which West Brom must certainly take advantage of by sending him out for first-team exposure in January.
The Baggies are currently undergoing a striker crisis after the injury to Josh Maja and Daryl Dike still out of action after his Achilles injury last season, but it is certainly too early for Corberan to rely on Cleary who needs development after his recent injury absence.
It may be best for all parties.
In other West Brom news, a near £7billion development may shape the club’s January plans with Carlos Corberan to be demanding.