West Bromwich Albion are looking at former Barcelona youngster Ivan Balliu to replace the departing Allan Nyom according to AS.
The Albanian international defender is currently without a club after refusing to sign an extension at French side Metz. He is a marauding full back who came through the Barcelona ranks as a youngster.
It is believed that a move to England is a dream for Balliu and West Brom could now be willing to gift him the opportunity to play in the Championship.
Nyom is currently in advanced talks with Spanish side Getafe as he looks to secure a transfer for around £3million which would end a spell of frustration for the Cameroonian who has never truly been able to cement a starting berth at the Hawthorns.
Balliu is seen as a like for like replacement for Nyom as Albion look to strengthen their defence following the departures of Craig Dawson to Watford and Tosin Adarabioyo having returned to parent club Manchester City. Mason Holgate is another first team regular to have left the Hawthorns to return back to parent club Everton.
The 27-year-old Balliu can also play at left back which highlights his versatility that can only be seen as a bonus for Slaven Bilic’s men.
West Brom are also looking to bring in Kenneth Zohore from Cardiff and Semi Ajayi from Rotherham on transfer fees so Balliu’s free agent status means the Baggies can use their remaining funds to focus on bringing in further reinforcements in other areas.
