According to The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath, there could be a battle ahead with Kyle Bartley wanted by both Crystal Palace and Newcastle United.
Kyle Bartley Wanted by Newcastle and Palace
West Bromwich Albion Defender Attracting Interest
Bartley was part of the West Brom team that was relegated to the Championship at the end of the 2020/21 Premier League season, but he could yet be given a reprieve and remain in the top division if interest in him results in a move back to the Premier League. Bartley is 30-years-old but is also available for a fee of around just £3 million which has made Palace and Newcastle take notice.
Steve Bruce is on the lookout for a new centre-back but new Palace manager Patrick Vieira is in need of bolstering his defence after the club released Gary Cahill, Scott Dan and Mamadou Sakho at the end of the last campaign, meaning his defence is almost non existent with just over four weeks until the Premier League kicks off again on August 14.
One Year Left on West Brom Deal
There has been some confusion over Bartley’s status as The Telegraph reported in March that Newcastle held an interest in the player claiming he was a free agent, but he since signed a new deal with West Brom according to The Athletic. He could now leave just five months on and would be able to leave on a free transfer in the summer of 2022.
Bartley put in some solid displays for West Brom despite being in a defence that was constantly under attack. After a standout season in regards to Baggies players, he may feel as though he still has one last chance to show what he can do at the top level of English football.
Bartley would also meet homegrown status which appeals to clubs and he would likely get a two or three year deal, providing him with more security.
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