West Brom to rival Sheffield Wednesday in Mickael Nade transfer battle
West Brom are interested in signing free agent centre-back Mickael Nate, according to L’Equipe.
The French outlet reported [12 July] that the Baggies and Championship rivals Sheffield Wednesday both “appreciate” the defender’s profile and could battle for his signature.
Nate’s contract with Saint-Etienne expired last month, but it is reported that they have offered the 25-year-old a new deal.
West Brom join Sheffield Wednesday in Mickael Nade transfer race
The French defender experienced a solid season with Saint-Etienne in Ligue 2 as the club won promotion, having finished in third place before beating FC Metz in the Ligue 1 qualification final.
Nade played an important role in that match, starting alongside Dylan Batubinsika in defence, though he did only make 22 league starts throughout the campaign.
While his defensive attributes will be the most important focus this summer, Nade also looks to be a threat in the final third, notching two goals and an assist in those 22 league matches.
The Baggies will need to pounce quickly if they are to secure the 25-year-old’s signature, with Saint-Etienne still attempting to re-sign the defender after his contract ran out.
While he has the opportunity to play in France’s top flight after helping to secure promotion, Carlos Corberan and West Brom may be able to persuade him that a move to England is the right choice.
The Baggies have only just added Torbjoern Heggem to the defensive ranks, but with 33-year-old Kyle Bartley and 30-year-old Semi Ajayi still at the club, there is no harm in adding more youth.
Cedric Kipre has also been heavily linked with a move away from The Hawthorns [Sabah, 11 June], so Nade could be signed as a potential backup for any eventuality with his fellow Frenchman.
In other West Brom news, Carlos Corberan has a decision to make on Fenton Heard following a contract update at The Hawthorns.
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