Ajayi to be back at Hawthorns next season as contract terms close
Semi Ajayi was released by West Brom this summer after six years at the club, but he could be seen again at The Hawthorns next season.
The Nigerian defender had been at The Hawthorns since 2019 and was a reliable figure in the defence.
Most notably, he was a strong presence during the 2019-20 season when the Baggies were promoted from the Championship. He regularly featured again in the Premier League the next season.
He has been less of a regular in recent times though, and it was announced earlier this summer that Ajayi wouldn’t be offered a new contract.
However, it’s looking increasingly likely that West Brom fans will see Ajayi again next season – albeit as a one-off.
Ajayi close to agreeing terms with Hull City
There was no shortage of interest in Ajayi when it was announced that he would be available as a free agent.
Several clubs from the Championship and League One had reportedly made contact with the defender.
Earlier this summer, Ajayi’s agent had suggested that Reading and Hull City were the two clubs in advanced negotiations for his signature.
Now, a report from the Hull Daily Mail (15 June), has suggested that is close to agreeing terms with the Tigers.
That would mean Ajayi is playing in the Championship next season and could come up against his old employers.
Hull City secured Championship survival on the last day of this season after a 1-1 draw with Portsmouth.
That point was enough to keep them up at the expense of Luton Town, who were beaten 5-3 by West Brom.
Ajayi should receive a warm welcome at The Hawthorns
Sometimes, former Baggies players receive a prickly reception upon their return to the Hawthorns.
This can happen if the fans believe the player forced through a transfer or disrespected the club upon their departure, for example.
That wasn’t the case with Ajayi. He was a loyal servant for the club and always gave his best in an Albion shirt.
| Games Played | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 16 | 1276 | 0 | 0 |
He’s also a symbol of more successful times. West Brom haven’t returned to the Premier League since that season when Ajayi was a regular.
For that reason, he’s likely to receive a warm reception if he does face off against them for a rival team next season. There’s no real resentment toward the Nigerian among the fanbase.
At the same time, the fans will hope the Baggies can fire several goals past him, the same way that so many opposition sides did during Ajayi’s only season in the Premier League.