West Brom ‘given Shankland transfer clarity’ as manager speaks out
West Brom could soon have clarity over their pursuit of Lawrence Shankland.
The Baggies are looking to bring the 29-year-old to The Hawthorns on a free transfer with his Hearts deal expiring at the end of the month.
New Albion boss Ryan Mason is desperate for attacking options, with the likes of Josh Maja and Daryl Dike often finding themselves on the sidelines for large parts of last season.
Shankland could be a viable option for the West Midlands club, after notching eight goals and eight assists in the Scottish Premiership last season.
Derek McInnes shares new update on Shankland contract
West Brom face competition from two Saudi Arabian clubs for Scottish striker Shankland, with the Jam Tarts still trying to convince him to stay.
The Tynecastle outfit’s boss and Albion icon Derek McInnes has given an ultimatum on Shankland’s future, claiming that the situation needs to be resolved soon.
Speaking to Sky Sports (20 June), he said: “I’ve spoken to his agents as well several times through the past few weeks, Lawrence has obviously got a lot to consider.
“We think we are a really strong option for him. Whether we are the best option in Lawrence’s eyes we need to wait and see.
“There will come a point where we need to draw a line under it.”
Shankland saga should be concluded soon for West Brom
The hunt for Shankland’s signature has dragged on, with some Albion supporters concerned about the lack of a decision from the Scotland international.
Judging by McInnes’ comments, the saga should be concluded soon, and the Baggies will find out whether they have got their man or they will have to move on to an alternative target.
If they can pull it off, it would be a great first addition for Mason as he prepares for his first managerial role with the Championship outfit.
Bilkul Football need to give the former Tottenham coach a competitive squad so that he has every chance to succeed, otherwise they may be looking for another new boss sooner rather than later.
Shankland has proved himself as a reliable goalscorer in the Scottish top flight, and if he can bring those exploits to the Black Country, it would help Albion’s play-off push immensely as they seek a Premier League return after a near five-year absence.
They need to get their attacking reinforcements right after seeing Grady Diangana leave for free, with Adam Armstrong and Will Lankshear simply not doing enough after arriving.
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