Barney Stewart reacts to West Brom transfer latest - 'It is insane'

Barney Stewart has reacted to his links with West Bromwich Albion after a fantastic season in Scotland.

The 22-year-old striker burst onto the scene north of the border this season, notching 10 goals in the second half of the campaign for Falkirk.

Recently, the Daily Record claimed that the Albion had already had a seven-figure bid turned down by the Scottish club ahead of the window.

Having secured their spot in the Championship, the Baggies are looking to rebuild and reset under James Morrison after an underwhelming year.

Now, Stewart has reacted to the recent reports linking him to West Brom.

Barney Stewart amazed by West Bromwich Albion links

Netting 18 times across a loan spell with Dunfermline and his time back at parent club Falkirk, the striker has begun to make a real name for himself in Scotland.

As a result, interest has arisen from the Baggies, who are looking to refresh their forward department over the summer.

Speaking at the Scottish Football Writers' Awards, Stewart was quizzed on the links, expressing how amazed he is.

“Listen, it is not for me to say, I have only been in the football game a season and a half. Everything is new to me, every bit of a rumour, anything is new," he said.

“It is a lot to take in, but it is the summer holidays now, and I am going to enjoy that and let whatever happens happen in the background.

“It is insane. If it were to happen, it would be a massive step and a quick rise if it does happen and one I would have to take in my stride, but speculation is speculation," concluded the 22-year-old.

And now, with Albion looking for a rebuild, they may be looking towards younger talents of his ilk as they aim to progress up the standings.

West Brom must get summer planning spot on 

It has been a fantastic spell for West Brom, who have been given a reprieve after a terrible run threw them into the relegation zone.

Looking ahead to the summer, the opportunity is there to rebuild and reset, leaving the relegation worries in the past.

The simple fact of the matter is that the Baggies are among the clubs where fighting for promotion is always the expectation when they are in the Championship, and they cannot afford another wasted year.

However, targets must be identified early, with Stewart potentially among a group of arrivals as the likes of Dike move on from The Hawthorns.

The Baggies have been handed a lifeline in the Championship, with the chance to launch themselves back among the top contenders, but this coming transfer window must be handled correctly to avoid a similar situation.