West Brom could beat Aston Villa to midfield star who lit up Europa League game
West Brom’s winter window left a lot to be desired, as they look to escape the threat of relegation to League One.
The Baggies have been poor this campaign, and that cost Ryan Mason his job in the middle of January.
Eric Ramsay has now taken over from Mason, but his short reign so far has been embroiled in boardroom drama, which will certainly not help the head coach.
Andrew Nestor has dramatically left West Brom, and now the club must continue to build on without him.
Focus on the future of the club is certainly a key topic right now, even amid the current worry of relegation, after new reports of a potential summer signing.
West Brom targeting Rangers’ Bailey Rice
West Brom have been previously linked with Rangers’ Bailey Rice, as a midfielder was an important signing in the last window.
Toby Collyer being recalled by Manchester United left the Baggies short of options. However, another man for the centre of the pitch was not signed in the end.
The aforementioned Rice is a player that has been garnering a lot of interest, with Aston Villa now said to be looking at the young Scotsman.
However, according to Football Insider, West Brom are still showing their interest as well.
As per Pete O’Rourke: “Bailey’s] out of contract in the summer, no new deal agreed as yet at Ibrox.
“So I’m sure there’s clubs in England looking at a situation ready to bring him down on a pre-contract. Villa and West Brom have been long-term admirers of the midfielder.
“It’s a difficult one for Rangers because he’s been out injured for so long, Bailey Rice has missed the last five months with a serious knee injury.
“He might not return before the end of the season so he could move on after that. Maybe those interested clubs who are looking at Rice might have some concerns over that injury.
The midfielder’s contract at Ibrox is set to expire at the end of the season, and so far, no progress has been made regarding a new deal.
Bailey Rice shone in Europe for Rangers
As pointed out in the same report, Rice stood out in a Europa League tie against Manchester United last season.
At 18 years old, Rice was also trusted by Rangers to start for them in the quarter-finals of the competition.
The midfielder’s job in the middle of the pitch was made difficult early on, as Robin Propper was sent off with 13 minutes played.
However, Rice seemed to hold his own, and the Glasgow club would hold on to secure a 0-0 draw despite being down to 10 men for 77 minutes.
In that game, Rice was stretchered off to a round of applause, as he received lengthy treatment for a head injury.
Luck has since not been on his side, as a serious knee injury has kept him out for most of the season so far. He has made just two appearances.
Signing him would be a risk for West Brom, but the young talent has proven himself on one of the biggest stages.