West Brom have opened talks to sign striker Mateo Cassierra from Portuguese outfit Belenenses, as reported by Mais Futebol.
Speaking three weeks ago, Belenenses president Rui Pedro Soares confirmed he had received approaches from four clubs for the highly rated Cassierra – including one “British team”.
Almost a month later, has the identity of that mystery suitor just been revealed?
It certainly seems like it with a number of publications claiming West Bromwich Albion have opened talks over a deal that would see the Colombian frontman swap Lisbon for the Hawthorns before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
It’s no secret Baggies boss Valerien Ismael has identified a centre-forward as his top priority.
Yesterday, the Express & Star reported West Brom were keen on Manchester City youngster Liam Delap and former Barnsley talisman Daryl Dike.
Cassierra could be the striker West Brom have been looking for
Like Delap and Dike, Cassierra is a physical, old-school number nine, a 6ft 1in powerhouse who thrives when leading the line on his own.
He scored 11 goals in 36 games for Belenenses last season and, with just one year left on his contract, is unlikely to break the bank.
Soares did admit in July, however, he had rejected a bid of about £2 million.
It’s uncertain how much the 24-year-old would cost at this stage, although Record believes West Brom have failed with an opening offer for the skilful centre-forward.
Cassierra spent three years at Dutch giants Ajax between 2016 and 2019, struggling to live up to expectations in Amsterdam following a near £5 million transfer.
Cassierra scored just three league goals at Ajax but, since moving to Portugal, has blossomed into a more rounded, consistent and mature footballer.
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