Manchester City are said to be interested in Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk, which means West Brom could keep hold of Jonny Evans.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola talks to Phil Foden.
Manchester City have made a careful transfer plan for the next 18 months which West Bromwich Albion will be hoping comes to fruition.
The Telegraph reports that while a defensive midfielder remains a priority next summer, if they do business in January then it is likely to be for a centre-back and Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez – who is out of contract at the end of this season.
Jonny Evans of West Bromwich Albion fouls Tammy Abraham of Swansea City during the Premier League match at the Liberty Stadium.
And the good news for the Baggies is that despite having a £21m bid for their captain Jonny Evans rejected in August and still holding an interest in the 29-year-old, Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk now appears to be top of their wishlist.
The only stumbling block could be the Saints’ valuation of Van Dijk, which currently stands at £70m, and despite their enormous financial resources is not a price City want to pay for the Dutchman.
Real Sociedad star Inigo Martinez is another being considered, but it seems that the Netherlands international is the man they really want to sign to give some more stability at the back.
Virgil van Dijk of Southampton clears the ball while under pressure from Jermain Defoe of AFC Bournemouth.
Liverpool were the favourites to sign Van Dijk, but according to the Metro have now turned their attention elsewhere after being reported to the Premier League by the 26-year-old’s current club over the summer for alleged tapping up.
If the Citizens do get their man then West Brom should therefore be able to keep hold of their skipper, who is likely to be a key figure in a potential relegation battle, although the Telegraph also reports that Arsenal are keeping tabs on the Northern Ireland international as well.
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