West Bromwich Albion want star striker Saido Berahino to sign a new contract, but will not stand in his way if a big offer came along.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis has warned Saido Berahino that he does not want a repeat of Raheem Sterling’s contract issues in upcoming talks with the striker.
Sterling’s Liverpool future is up in the air after the winger publicly refused to sign a new contract, per the BBC, and the situation has become increasingly hostile this week after a dispute between the club and Aidy Ward, Sterling’s agent.
Ward also happens to be Berahino’s agent but West Brom appear to have a plan for their prized asset, who has scored 20 goals in all competitions this season.
Pulis has told Berahino that he can leave the Hawthorns should a big offer come along this summer but wants him to sign a new contract if that does not materialise.
He told the Mirror: “We’ve had a little chat and I think Saido understands my feelings and what I think. People can stand up and say what they want and he’s done that. Do I agree with it? No, of course I don’t.
“But that’s why it’s a great country. You need to have the opportunity to speak your mind. Saido knows where this club stands. If a top-four club comes in and makes a massive offer and it’s good for the club and good for the player then we will sit down and talk.”
It is refreshing to see a manager and player come to a civilised agreement over a contract issue after the Sterling issues came to light earlier in the week.
Whilst Pulis obviously wants to keep Berahino next season, he is not standing in his way of a big-money move should the opportunity come along. This stance shows a great deal of respect to both West Brom and Berahino’s long-term ambitions.
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