Hibernian boss Lee Johnson admits that Ryan Porteous could leave if the price is right with Championship duo Sunderland and West Brom keen on the Scotland international centre-back, speaking to Sky Sports.
With his contract expiring in the summer of 2023, January represents the final chance for Hibs to enjoy any sort of a windfall for a player who has spent his entire professional career at Easter Road.
According to the Sun, a handful of English-based clubs are taking a keen interest. West Brom, Norwich City, Watford and Johnson’s former employers Sunderland are among them. Talks between Hibs and Porteous have broken down too.
The Edinburgh outfit must weigh up the pros and cons of a January sale. Hibs would they look to avoid losing a prized asset for absolutely nothing.
Hibernian’s Ryan Porteous is a target for Sunderland, West Brom, Norwich City and Watford
“An assessment will have to be made based on the financial offer that we receive,” explains Johnson; sacked by Sunderland in January following a 6-0 thumping at Bolton Wanderers.
“You have to weigh up the benefit of keeping Ryan here and competing to fight for those European places. A cup run is possible in the Scottish Cup.
“At the same time, the succession plan has to be considered. If the fee is right and we’re able to reinvest it in a younger player or a player that could be as good as Ryan, then we have to look at that opportunity as well.”
The tough-tackling Porteous, outstanding on his Scotland debut during a recent 0-0 draw with Ukraine, is likely to be available for a cut price fee in the New Year. The 23-year-old has put that contract situation behind him too; silencing the noise while continuing to perform at the heart of Hibs’ backline.
Championship-bound?
“What I would say is that Ryan has been fantastic,” Johnson adds. “He’s been the perfect professional if you like and absolutely he’s available for selection going into Thursday.
“Myself and Ryan have a very good relationship and it’s stayed honest all the way through. I’ve got no issue with him personally.”
Porteous would be a fitting first signing for new head coach Carlos Corberan at West Brom. The Baggies have improved substantially from a defensive standpoint since hiring the Spaniard as Steve Bruce’s XI.
West Brom are now 17th in the table following a run of four straight wins.
Norwich and Watford, meanwhile, are both sitting pretty in the play-offs. Sunderland are in a respectable 11th, with Amad Diallo inspiring a potential promotion charge. The Manchester United loanee has five goals in his last seven games.
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