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David Wagner has emerged as the new frontrunner to succeed Sam Allardyce as West Brom manager, with some reports suggesting a deal is virtually done.
The former Huddersfield boss has been out of work since he was sacked by Bundesliga outfit Schalke in September 2020. The 49-year-old took Town into the Premier League through the 2017 play-offs and while they survived their first season, he was sacked in January 2019 as they eventually went down.
Ex-Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder had appeared certain to land the role after speaking to the club’s hierarchy.
However, although Wilder has plenty of support at the Hawthorns, it’s thought that Chinese owner Guochuan Lai personally intervened to voice his opposition to the appointment.
Former West Brom midfielder Michael Appleton also has his admirers at the club, which concluded its interview process over the weekend. Ex-Baggies boss Roy Hodgson was also linked with the role but he turned it down.
Allardyce left West Brom at the end of the 2020-21 season following the club’s drop to the Championship – the first top-flight relegation of his career.
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Baggies listening to offers for playmaker
Meanwhile, West Brom have told Matheus Pereira that he can leave the club this summer, but only for the right offer, TEAMtalk can reveal.
The Brazilian attacking midfielder has been brilliant for the Baggies since initially arriving on loan from Sporting Lisbon in 2019. However, he is now certain to move on after West Brom were once again relegated from the Premier League this past season.
The 25-year-old is now being chased by a number of clubs who are ready to pay for Pereira – with West Brom believed to be looking for at least £15million.
Indeed, whilst West Brom have told Pereira that they won’t stop him leaving – they would have no qualms about keeping him if their valuation is not met – and with Premier League parachute payments, they would be able to cope with the finances if required.
One club who are looking closely is newly promoted Norwich, who could need a replacement for Emi Buendia. Play-off winners Brentford are also believed to be fans, whilst Aston Villa and Brighton have also made enquiries.
It is believed clubs in Portugal, Spain and Germany – where he has played before – are also keen on Pereira.
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