It was reported yesterday that former Leicester City striker Shinji Okazaki has left Malaga by mutual consent after the Spanish club were unable to fit his wages within their budget.
Okazaki had only been on their books for 34 days but left a heartfelt plea for the side despite his brief stay and swift departure.
Formerly of Leicester City, the Japanese is now available as a free agent after leaving Malaga and he may be the perfect fit for Championship side West Bromwich Albion.
Although at now 33-years-old he’d surely be welcomed back to England with open arms after he became something of a fans’ favourite during his time at the King Power Stadium due to his personality and 100% commitment.
Since the departures of Dwight Gayle back to parent club Newcastle United and Jay Rodriguez being sold to Burnley, the Baggies have acquired Charlie Austin from Southampton and Kenneth Zohore from Cardiff City.
However Gayle and Rodriguez managed almost 50 goals between them and many fans are doubting the ability of Austin and in particular Zohore to replicate that kind of goal return.
Okazaki has never been the most prolific of goalscorers, even in Leicester’s 2016 Premier League title-winning campaign he netted just five goals, but his tireless work-rate would surely make him an immediate fans’ favourite at West Brom should he be interested in a move to the Midlands club.
With Slaven Bilic’s side now not being able to dip into the transfer market until January they may decide to look at the free agents available and Okazaki is certainly an interesting option.
His wages in all probability shouldn’t be beyond Albion and with the Championship club having had a good start to the season and sitting in fourth position it could be a challenge that may appeal to the Japanese international.