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West Brom are set to embark on their first Championship season under the tenure of Ryan Mason, and there is hope he can deliver on the promise he has shown in his coaching career.
The Baggies have been busy in the transfer market to attempt to give him the resources for the upcoming Championship season.
West Brom have signed Nat Phillips from Liverpool, as well as George Campbell and Aune Heggebo.
Regarding outgoings, Bologna bid near £10m for Torbjorn Heggem after his impressive debut season in the Baggies’ defence.
Ryan Mason knows there is a need to strengthen his defence, particularly at left back, which saw them target Harry Toffolo, but the free agent opted to move to the MLS, a huge transfer blow for West Brom.
However, West Brom seem to have found another player that could fill that position in the form of another signing.
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West Brom interested in Kian Best
It was first reported in Sports Boom that West Brom are interested in the loan signing of Kian Best from Chelsea.
However, they are not the only Championship club looking to acquire the services of the teenager, with Stoke City and Derby County also said to be interested.
Chelsea are said to be keen to send teenager Kian Best out on loan this season following his arrival on a free transfer after leaving Preston North End.
It has been reported Stoke City, Derby County, West Brom and Coventry have all made initial enquiries about the player’s availability for the forthcoming campaign.
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Who is Kian Best?
Kian Best came through the Preston academy, signing a scholarship with the club in 2021, having grown up in Lancashire.
Best made 17 senior appearances across all competitions for the Lilywhites before going out on loan to League of Ireland side Bohemians last season to get some first-team minutes.
Upon his return to Lancashire following his loan spell, it was made clear to Preston he would leave the club on a free, with his desired destination Chelsea.
This was due to the promise he has shown in his short career for both Preston and the underage England team.
His former manager Ryan Lowe is clearly a huge fan of Kian Best’s after describing him as ‘unbelievable’ to the Lancashire Post.
He said: “He should take a lot of pride and credit in the season he’s had. Because really, we took up an option on this third-year scholar, to see how he would develop – and he’s developed tremendously well. Long may that continue… the easiest part is getting here; the hardest part is staying here and sustaining it.
“But no, he’s got big, big potential and a lot of quality.
“There are only Premier League players who play those passes and he’s got that. His set-plays at the top end of the pitch as well.
“He’s definitely got quality and his set-piece delivery is unbelievable, so again, big future ahead.”