What Derby County intend to do next as West Brom respond to Alex Mowatt bid
West Bromwich Albion have swiftly responded to Derby County's offer for midfielder Alex Mowatt.
A year on from a deal falling short for Mowatt, Derby are reported to have made a fresh approach this week.
The Rams are eager to bring in the 31-year-old on a permanent basis ahead of his contract at The Hawthorns expiring next summer.
Mowatt's future in the West Midlands has been uncertain for a number of months given his contract situation.
Albion have moved to strengthen in the middle of the pitch with the arrivals of Felix Horn Myhre and Rabby Nzingoula.
However, they seemingly do not intend to let Mowatt leave easily prior to the transfer window closing early next month.
Alex Mowatt latest as West Brom reject Derby bid
Many perhaps would have expected West Brom to accept Derby's bid for Mowatt in wake of those recent new arrivals.
However, The Express & Star reported on Wednesday evening that Albion rejected Derby's initial approach.
The report adds that Derby will likely return with a fresh offer for the former England Under-20s international.
Talks between the two Championship clubs remain ongoing at this stage, with the Baggies having a particular valuation in mind.
Can West Brom afford to let Mowatt leave?
Mowatt may have slipped down James Morrison's pecking order, but he does still remain a key figure in the West Brom dressing room.
He has made 170 appearances for Albion in his five years at The Hawthorns and has strong leadership qualities.
He started 32 Championship games last season and also started last week's EFL Cup win over Rotherham United.
When you factor in the options available to Morrison, Mowatt surely will not be a regular starter in midfield once everything settles down.
However, from a selfish point of view, he remains a good squad option for Morrison.
Ultimately, this all depends on how much Derby are willing to offer for an ageing midfielder out of contract in 10 months' time.
If the Rams are unwilling to match Albion's valuation, whatever that may be, Mowatt should remain a West Brom player for now.