Would Jay Rodriguez improve West Brom if he was to move from Southampton this summer?
Southampton’s Jay Rodriguez shoots
Southampton forward Jay Rodriguez has found his playing time limited this season, with Claude Puel preferring Manolo Gabbiadini, Charlie Austin and Shane Long ahead of him up front.
The 27-year-old, who can play as a striker or on the left wing, has scored four goals in the league this season and is thought to be frustrated at his lack of playing time, according to the Daily Mail.
The Daily Mail reports that the out-of-favour forward is interesting newly promoted Newcastle United and Premier League side West Bromwich Albion.
Bournemouth’s Steve Cook in action with Southampton’s Jay Rodriguez
Tony Pulis failed in a bid to sign the forward in January following an injury to Charlie Austin but the Mail suggest he will pursue his interest in the forward again this summer.
With the likes of Nacer Chadli, James McClean and Matt Phillips all vying for a spot on the left-wing for Tony Pulis’s side, it is likely Rodriguez would be preferred as a striking option for the Baggies if he were to join.
However, does the Saints man really offer anything different than the West Brom current forward options Hal Robson-Kanu and Salomon Rondon?
Robson-Kanu often holds the ball up to lay it off to teammates or play quick one-two’s to create openings behind the defence; whereas Rondon is an out-and-out striker and target man.
Rodriguez however, has the pace and energy to run into space behind the defence, which differs to the Baggies current options and could work well as a partnership alongside Rondon.
Rondon’s strength and ability in the air and Rodriguez’s pace would provide Pulis with the goal threat partnership that could propel West Brom into top-six contention next season.
Tony Pulis celebrates
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