West Bromwich Albion started the season on a very strong note but they seemed to have lost their way in recent times as they are winless in their last six matches. Tony Pulis’ side drew 1-1 with Leicester City yesterday night and are currently in 10th place in the Premier League table.
Given their current form, Pulis is likely to seek reinforcements in January and has according to reports, identified Vyacheslav Karavaev as a potential target. The 22-year-old right back is currently plying his trade with Sparta Prague and is contracted with the club until 2020.
The defence has been the focal point behind Pulis’ strategy as the former Stoke City gaffer likes to play with a strong defence at the back. Pulis emphasises more on defence than attack but the result was not evident the last time around as the Baggies conceded 51 goals last season.
Pulis currently has two options in Craig Dawson and Allan Nyom in the right back section. Dawson was pretty impressive as a centre back last season and has played a dual role this season while Nyom’s form hasn’t been quite up to the mark.
Karavaev made his progress through the ranks of CSKA Moscow but having failed to establish himself at the club he had a number of loan stint at various clubs. He went on to secure a move to Sparta Prague in 2016 and since then has been an essential part of the side.
The Russian star has represented his country at various youth levels and is one of the brightest prospects to have emerged from the Russian soil. The 22-year-old shined in his inaugural season in the Russian top tier as he finished the season with three goals and nine assists.
Lazio also holds an interest in the player but Pulis is likely to make the first move as the gaffer is rumoured to be preparing a £2.5m offer for the player. The Baggies are destined to make some big moves in the winter transfer window and bringing the youngster to the Midlands is one of the priorities for Pulis.
Standing at five feet nine, the side back is reasonably taller than the usual side backs and would be able to bring his aerial prowess to the game (somewhat like Monreal at Arsenal).
The defender is also significantly experienced in playing in the Europe as he already played in the Europa League and the UEFA Champions League so it would be a boost for the Baggies if in near future they manage to get a chance to test their resolve in Europe.
