Don Goodman shares what he's now heard about West Brom takeover - 'I'm led to believe...'

We're delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Don Goodman as our exclusive columnist. Each week he'll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns.

Don Goodman admits a takeover at West Brom "cannot happen quickly enough" if Carlos Corberan is to keep the club competitive.

A number of parties have been tipped to buy out Guochuan Lai since Albion's majority shareholder made clear that he is looking to sell up.

The Tampa Bay Business Journal reported on Friday (26 January) that Shilen Patel is the "top bidder" to purchase West Brom.

The Florida-based entrepreneur, whose family is worth over a reported $1billion (£788million), is said to be close to concluding a deal.

However, fans remain anxious about a deal falling through, which could prove catastrophic for the club given they are currently relying on loans.

And with a deal not being concluded in time for the January transfer window, West Brom have not been able to make any permanent signings.

Speaking exclusively to West Brom News about Albion's transfer business and the takeover situation, Goodman said: "It's a difficult balancing act.

"The hierarchy will not have the luxury to worry about what's happening on the pitch right now, but rather what's going on off it.

"I'm led to believe there are several parties interested in buying the football club, and that can't happen quickly enough for Corberan."

"I know they've taken out loans to cover wages and make sure they have money in the bank, and clearly they're not spending money.

"Hopefully, these loans will at least see them through until the end of the season.

"As a player you don't really focus on that; you're not worrying about not being paid, but rather sealing a top-six finish.

"The sooner the takeover happens, the better for all concerned. It's just a shame there's an owner who has bitten off more than he can chew."

In other West Brom news, a Premier League club are reportedly interested in signing one of Corberan's regulars.

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