It was the talk of last summer and the same thing could happen again this year too. Saido Berahino could finally leave West Brom, a year after threatening to strike when the club decided not to sell him to Tottenham Hotspur.
The 22-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the 2016/17 season, so if he does not agree to a new deal, Albion are almost certain to sell him this summer, rather than losing him on a ‘free transfer’ with a fee set by a tribunal in 2017.
Therefore, the Baggies are going to need another striker to fill the void left when the former England U21 international leaves.
So, we’ve taken a look around Europe to identify some possible replacements for Berahino. These players may not be similar in style to the Englishman, but they are all likely to be available and we’d like to think they are realistic too.
Here’s who we’ve come up with:
Laurent Depoitre
The 27-year-old Belgian international looks set to leave Gent in the summer and is reportedly interested in a move to England.
He’s scored 14 goals in 39 appearances in all competitions during the current campaign.
Ross McCormack
The Fulham striker tried to leave the Championship club in the January window.
At 29-years-old, he would bring experience and a desire to succeed at the highest level.
He’s scored 21 times in 40 games for Fulham this season.
Patrick Bamford
The Chelsea man is currently on loan at Norwich City and is looking to prove that he can be an effective striker in the Premier League after excelling in the Championship.
Jermain Defoe
If Sunderland get relegated, the chances are that Jermain Defoe will look to leave and continue his career in the top-flight.
He’d be an excellent addition for the Baggies.
Jordan Ayew
With Aston Villa all-but-relegated, it’s likely that players and agents have begun to seek moves away from Villa Park.
Ayew has been one of very few bright sparks for Villa this season.
Your thoughts?
What are your thoughts on the five players mentioned?
Is there someone we’ve missed?
Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter @ReadWestBrom