Ben Brereton Diaz transfer can’t be overlooked at West Brom as key to new-look attack appeals

Ben Brereton Diaz would be nothing short of a solid signing for West Bromwich Albion due to several overwhelming reasons.

The Baggies need to add firepower to their front line next season, and with Jed Wallace’s exit confirmed and Karlan Grant’s future up in the air, that’s never been more true.

Albion still don’t know if Josh Maja will be an option for them next season, but Brereton Diaz offers versatility and quality across the front three positions.

The Chile international is set to return to Southampton following his loan spell at Derby County this season, and though he was a divisive figure at Pride Park, he should be welcomed with open arms at The Hawthorns.

West Brom have been tipped to sign Brereton Diaz, and some of his best seasons in the Championship should give James Morrison and Co. all the confidence to make a move.

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Here’s how Ben Brereton Diaz could aid West Brom’s attack

One concern that some Baggies fans may have is how the team will play after a break in momentum under Morrison, despite an upcoming pre-season.

The team was fighting tooth and nail at the back end of the season to avoid relegation from the Championship, which saw them set up rigidly, and didn’t show potential for a future free-flowing attack.

Area of gameStats
Games27
Goals22
Assists3
Chances created per 900.67
Dribble success47%
Pass accuracy73.5%
Brereton Diaz’ 2021-22 season

Brereton Diaz’ best season came in the 2021-22 campaign with Blackburn Rovers where he scored 22 times in 34 starts, leading the way as one of the division’s top scorers.

This earned him call-ups to play for his national team, and as seen with his stats, there was a reason why. Now, West Brom could sign Brereton Diaz in a very smart move.

The now 27-year-old scored 0.65 times per 90 minutes, and overperformed his expected goal rate by 2.6.

He also boasted an impressive 47 per cent dribble successand only went on to back up this campaign with 16 goals in all competitions the following season.

He then got his Premier League move to Sheffield United in the 2023-24 season, where he grabbed seven goal contributions in 14 games.

The past season saw the forward register 11 goal involvements in a total of 41 games, still a respectable return.

Brereton Diaz could be available for cheaper than expected

Southampton do not have Brereton Diaz in their plans for next season, most likely because the Saints are trying to raise funds following their recent Spygate scandal, with more repercussions set to follow.

It’s not known how much the Baggies may have to pay, or if he may be approached for a loan move; either way, it would be smart business by Shilen Patel.

Every player can have some off-seasons, but Brereton Diaz has proved in more than one season that he is a high-end Championship player at the very least when he’s on form.

He could be that maverick that Morrison needs in attack, and if it’s financially feasible, Patel must do everything in his power to get it done.

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