Credit: Imago

Henry Green

Thu 12 June 2025 21:00, UK

Cedric Kipre left West Brom as somewhat of a recent icon, with rumours already refusing to go away over a possible return.

Last summer, Kipre departed the Albion for the French side Reims, who were sadly relegated from Ligue 1 this season.

Now, the Ivorian is expected to leave his current club in the transfer window, with England a likely destination.

The defender has been linked with a move to Sunderland, and the former Baggies star has now been spotted in Birmingham, days after reacting to Ryan Mason’s appointment.

Kipre tight-lipped on potential return to The Hawthorns

Kipre had a turbulent time at West Brom, but after a loan spell at Cardiff, the defender re-established himself as first-choice centre back at The Hawthorns.

The Ivorian won both the players’ and supporters’ Player of the Season awards during his final campaign, which ended in play-off heartbreak.

The 28-year-old could be set for a return to the Albion after he was spotted in Birmingham.

A West Brom fan shared an encounter on Thursday, where he asked whether Kipre would return to the Baggies, which he laughed at and replied, “We will see”.

The Ivory Coast international initially struggled for regular gametime at The Hawthorns but became a regular during the 2023/24 campaign.

Kipre has gone on to struggle in France since his transfer and has had two red cards in 28 league games for Reims, which could make him a more affordable acquisition.

Kipre transfer to West Brom makes sense for all parties

Kipre clearly still has a lot of appreciation for his former side, and it shouldn’t be too difficult to convince the defender to re-join the Baggies.

New West Brom head coach Mason might not have many resources to sign players this summer after recent PSR trouble, and with Reims’ relegation, Kipre could be available for cheap.

The Albion would have to fend off interest from Sunderland, which could be Mason’s only stumbling block in making the deal.

Frenchman Regis Le Bris considers Kipre a serious option as the Mackems look to strengthen their backline after promotion to the Premier League.

However, Baggies fans are hoping that the Ivorian’s emotional connection to the club will help him choose the Midlands over the North East.