According to The Express and Star, West Brom view Habib Diallo as a genuine alternative to their top target, Karlan Grant.
We recently reported a story from The Sun which said that the Baggies were in discussions over a deal for the Metz striker. However, The Express and Star offer fresh information in saying that the forward is high up on Slaven Bilic’s list of targets.
The 25-year-old was likened to Chelsea and France striker Olivier Giroud by French football expert Jeremy Smith.
The Express and Star quote him as saying: ‘In terms of the type of player he is and his gradual career progress via Ligue 2 and a breakout Ligue 1 season, I’d be tempted to go for Olivier Giroud. But not (yet) at Giroud’s level.’
Diallo is yet to score in four Ligue 1 appearances this season.
However, he did manage to net 12 goals in 26 outings last term, along with three assists.
Crucially, The Express and Star’s report also mentions that Metz are happy to allow the Senegalese striker to leave on loan for a hefty fee, before the move is made permanent at a later date.
This would allow West Brom some breathing space when having to pay the French side’s £10 million asking price, a sum which is beyond the Baggies’ means if needed to be paid in full upfront as the report states.
Also in The Express and Star’s story is the fact that Metz are keen to cash in before Monday’s deadline, which should make for an interesting end to the window.
If West Brom can’t get Grant over the line, then the Giroud-like frontman looks to be their alternative.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
