Nat Phillips transfer fee emerges as West Brom deal announced
West Brom have announced their first signing of the summer transfer window, with Nat Phillips joining from Liverpool.
Phillips arrives on a permanent deal, ending a nine-year association with the Reds, in which he embarked on several loan deals.
West Brom moved to sign the centre-back at the request of Ryan Mason, who is keen to strengthen several areas within his squad.
Andrew Nestor has praised the signing, claiming that Phillips will bring experience and quality to the defence, and the financial details of the deal have now emerged.
West Brom agree multi-million deal for Phillips
Phillips was entering the last year of his contract at Liverpool before completing his switch to The Hawthorns, and West Brom paid a fee to secure his signature.
It has now been reported by Lewis Steele, as per Liverpool News, that the total package, including add-ons, could reach £3million.
Liverpool will be happier with the fee, as they have earned some money in the final summer of his contract at Anfield.
West Brom have secured an experienced player in his prime years for a fairly low price, but in relative terms, some may see it as an excessive amount to spend on a player who had no future at Liverpool.
It is unclear how much of the fee will be paid upfront and in add-ons, but West Brom have secured their first signing of the window.
Phillips one of West Brom’s most expensive recent signings
West Brom have hardly spent on transfers in the past three seasons, relying instead on loans and free agents, and the signing of Phillips may represent a shift away from this.
Only Mikey Johnston and Tammer Bany have cost more than the total package for Phillips in the past three years, with West Brom’s spending power limited during that time.
Phillips is set to be a starter for the Albion, and given Mason’s desire to sign him, there will be hope that he quickly justifies his fee.
The centre-back impressed on loan at Derby County last season and will slot straight into the side as a Championship-experienced defender.
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