According to Record via Sport Witness, West Bromwich Albion want sign Filip Krovinovic permanently this summer. The 24-year-old has impressed while on a season-long loan from Benfica and could be available for €11.5m (£10.1m).
Record say Benfica are unsure whether to let Krovinovic leave, but the attacking-midfielder is keen to stay in England so that may help Albion procure his signature.
The former Croatian U21 international made 34 appearances in all competitions before the season was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, scoring two goals and making four assists.
As per WhoScored, Krovinovic has made 31 Championship appearances, created 36 chances, completed 85.2% of his 1132 passes, won 23 aerial duels (39.7%), had 19 successful dribbles (52.77%), whipped in 41 crosses with 21.9% finding a teammate, took 44 shots with 25% accuracy, blocked 24 passes/crosses/shots, made 10 clearances, won 35 free-kicks and averaged a tackle (26) or interception (27) every 35 minutes.
The 24-year-old has made a real impact at the Hawthorns, but it remains to be seen if Albion will match his asking price. As per Transfermarkt, West Brom had a negative net spend of £10.27m in 2018/19 and £10.91m in 2019/20. They’ve been happy to sign the likes of Sam Johnstone (£6.6m from Manchester United) and Kenneth Zohore (£8m from Cardiff City), but they made back their money each time.
Albion’s league standing might be a factor in their decision to sign Krovinovic too. If the season is resumed in May and they get promoted from the Championship, the Baggies may be willing to spend more on new recruits. If they don’t go up, they may not sanction such an outlay.
