West Brom face a fight for the signature of Trevoh Chalobah as Premier League newcomers Brentford look to hijack their deal for the Chelsea youngster, as reported by the Express & Star.
Like older brother Nathaniel, Chalobah has little choice but to pack his bags and give up his Stamford Bridge dream if he wants to establish himself in the senior game.
If the brilliant Billy Gilmour isn’t going to get a chance in the heart of Thomas Tuchel’s star-studded midfield, a 22-year-old without a single first-team appearance in that famous blue shirt was never likely to threaten Jorginho, N’Golo Kante or Mateo Kovacic for their place.
But with newly promoted Brentford now expressing an interest in a man who shone during a loan spell at Lorient last season – impressing in a 3-2 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in January – Chalobah could at least be handed an opportunity to show Chelsea what they’re missing in the top flight.
Will Chalobah choose Brentford over West Brom?
Last week, the Express & Star reported new West Brom boss Valerien Ismael had set his sights on the hard-running, technically gifted Chalobah.
The Baggies had opened talks over a transfer too, with Chelsea willing to let the England U21 international leave for free.
West Brom’s task has just become harder, however.
Brentford can offer something West Brom can’t – Premier League football – while Bees boss Thomas Frank has a superb track record when it comes to helping promising youngsters realise their potential.
The Baggies shouldn’t be ruled out of the race just yet of course – talks with Chalobah are understood to be progressing well – but the opportunity put forward by Brentford may feel a tad more tempting.
“He is a very good player,” Huddersfield coach Mark Hudson said during Chalobah’s time in Yorkshire.
“He’s got so much potential. In my opinion, he’ll definitely be a Chelsea player next year!”
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