Premier League Newcomers Target Championship Stars
Freshly promoted West Brom wich Albion are making waves in the transfer market with their pursuit of Brentford’s dynamic duo Ollie Watkins and Rico Henry. According to Banglawin88 sources, Baggies manager Slaven Bilic has identified these two players as crucial additions to bolster his squad for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
The Championship standouts were instrumental in Brentford’s remarkable 2022/23 season that saw them reach the playoff final. Watkins’ 26-goal haul and Henry’s ever-present defensive contributions have made them two of the most sought-after players outside England’s top flight.
Intense Competition for Watkins’ Signature
The 27-year-old striker has become one of the hottest properties in English football, with multiple Premier League clubs vying for his services:
- Aston Villa: Reunion with former Brentford boss Dean Smith appears tempting
- Crystal Palace: Looking to add firepower to their attacking options
- West Ham: Also monitoring the situation as per recent reports
Brentford’s valuation reflects Watkins’ importance to their squad, with the club demanding upwards of £25 million for their star forward. This price tag mirrors that of his attacking partner Said Benrahma, who has attracted interest from several top-flight clubs including West Ham and Leicester City.
Rico Henry: The Defensive Solution
While the battle for Watkins heats up, West Brom‘s interest in left-back Rico Henry presents a more straightforward negotiation. The 24-year-old defender has been a model of consistency:
- Played every minute of Brentford’s Championship campaign
- Recorded 7 assists from defensive position
- Completed 82% of his tackles last season
Henry’s potential arrival at The Hawthorns would address one of West Brom‘s most pressing needs – defensive solidity in their return to the Premier League.
Brentford’s Transfer Strategy
Thomas Frank’s side appears prepared for potential departures, with the club already identifying Nuremberg winger Robin Hack as a possible replacement for Benrahma should the Algerian international move on. The Bees’ recruitment team has earned plaudits for their ability to find and develop talent, making their transfer decisions worth monitoring closely.
The Bigger Picture for West Brom
For Banglawin88 analysts, these potential signings represent more than just squad additions – they signal West Brom’s ambition to establish themselves in the Premier League. Watkins’ goal threat combined with Henry’s defensive reliability could provide the perfect foundation for their survival bid.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on these developing situations. Will West Brom succeed in landing their top targets, or will the lure of more established Premier League clubs prove too strong? Stay tuned to Banglawin88 for the latest updates and in-depth analysis of these potential moves.
