Despite being linked with a move for several players in the ongoing transfer window, West Bromwich’s movements have been surprisingly limited to just bringing in Jake Livermore and offloading the unused Saido Berahino. Although West Brom are sitting comfortably in the eighth position, manager Tony Pulis has, on more than one occasion, stated the need for reinforcements in the squad.
And one area, which definitely needs modification is Albion’s backline. Although Pulis is a master in shutting out opponents by congesting the area in and around the D-box and slowing the tempo of the game to take out the sting from it, the Baggies have been easily unlocked at the back, already conceding 28 times this season.
And according to reports, Pulis has identified a potential signing to improve his defence in Chelsea’s forgotten man Branislav Ivanovic. Once a regular in the team, the Serbian has lost his place in the team with the new manager shifting to three at the back. His chances were further dealt a blow when Chelsea started with Zouma and Ake on the bench against Hull City in the last game.
Although he has played 15 times for the team so far, he last started for the team back in September last year in the 3-0 loss to Arsenal. Apart from that, his team action has been reduced to cup competitions mainly. Ivanovic played the full 90 minutes against Peterborough in the last round of the FA Cup and may well feature at home to Brentford in round four.
His contract expires this summer and West Brom are planning to table a loan bid for the Serbia international for the rest of the season. Considering his wages, which is around £90,000, and too high to cover for the Baggies, a deal could be struck should Chelsea make up a percentage.
Although Russian side Zenit St Petersburg and Premier League side Everton are also monitoring the player, a move to Albion is possible considering the distance of west Midlands from London. With his family staying in London, he could travel to the club easily, which might just influence his decision.
West Brom will have to refrain from making the same mistakes that they committed in the first half of the season and the addition of his experience will definitely make up for it.
