Manchester United defender Chris Smalling could cost half the price of Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson – no wonder West Brom want him.
It’s been a funny old summer for West Brom, and you could see why more than a few fans would be frustrated with their sluggish approach to transfer dealings in recent weeks.
Both Charlie Taylor and Kieran Gibbs slipped through their grasp after The Baggies steadfastly refused to pay the required fee, per Sky Sports, meaning they are still short of options at left-back with just a few weeks until the new Premier League season.
Furthermore, much-anticipated club-record moves for Sporting Lisbon’s midfield duo Adrien Silva and William Carvalho look more unlikely by the day.
Pulis is yet to make a real impact in the transfer market
As such, Jay Rodriguez, the former Southampton forward who has endured a torrid time with injuries in recent seasons, is the only big-money signing through the door at The Hawthorns this summer.
And the fact that Middlesbrough have rejected a £21 million bid from The Baggies for their captain and centre-back Ben Gibson, as reported by the Daily Mail, suggests that West Brom face further disappointment. Yet, they may have more luck attempting to land Manchester United’s Chris Smalling for half the price.
Half price
The Express claim that The Baggies have tracked the 27-year-old since the end of last season and are preparing a £10 million bid as Pulis aims to reunite Jonny Evans with his former United team-mate. Interest from Leicester, Stoke and Crystal Palace means they will have to move quickly however.
And the difference in fees between Gibson and Smalling rather sums up the insanity of the modern transfer market. Gibson has only one season in the Premier League to his name and he is still yet to make his international bow, despite being called up in March.
Smalling is proven in the Premier League
Smalling, meanwhile, has represented his country on 31 occasions while making more than 150 appearances in England’s top flight, lifting the Premier League trophy on two occasions. He’s also just three years older than Gibson, a player bafflingly valued at twice as much.
For West Brom, turning their attention towards Smalling seems like the most sensible solution.
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