West Brom now at risk of Harry Whitwell exit despite James Morrison reward

West Brom are in danger of losing Harry Whitwell.

The 20-year-old is one of the most promising talents to have graced the turf at The Hawthorns in recent years.

Whitwell was the star of West Brom's 4-1 win over Rotherham, as they opened their campaign by progressing in the Carabao Cup.

As a result, he is set to be rewarded by James Morrison, with a place in the senior side.

It was widely expected that he would go out on another loan spell, but that is not the case.

The manager confirmed that he plans to keep Whitwell around, but it may not be as simple as it seems, at least in the long-term.

Why could Harry Whitwell leave West Brom

West Brom could see the youngster exit in the very near future, if they do not play their cards right.

A report from Steve Tudgay on Monday claims that he is contracted until 2027, and several clubs are sniffing around.

It states that he is expected to be fit to face Norwich on the opening day of the Championship, and they are one of the sides who want to sign him.

If he does not sign a new deal, then they could act on their interest and snap him up for nothing.

Why West Brom should not be worried about losing Whitwell yet

West Brom should be confident of agreeing fresh terms with the talent who joined their youth ranks at the age of 11.

For starters, he is set to be granted an opportunity in the first-team picture, which is what every player wants at their boyhood club.

Secondly, he is in an environment that he is comfortable in, and has previously stated that he has enjoyed himself in pre-season with the men's team.

Finally, Bilkul Football are no longer under pressure to sell academy assets for pure profit to satisfy Profit and Sustainability concerns, like they had to do with Alex Palmer and Tom Fellows in the past.

Therefore, an extension for Whitwell should be a priority, and they should have faith that he will stick around, rather than choosing to run his deal down and move elsewhere.

There is plenty of time for that to happen and it should not be too much of a worry right now.