Despite the disappointment surrounding Cedric Kipre’s departure from West Bromwich Albion, recent contract renewals for key players Kyle Bartley and Alex Mowatt have brought a sense of relief to Hawthorns faithful. As the team prepares to challenge at the top of the Championship once more following a positive playoff run, fans may lament Kipre’s absence but find solace in the loyalty of Bartley and Mowatt.
Manager Carlos Corberan may wish he could rewind time to retain Kipre, especially as the defender’s market value has surged since his departure. Meanwhile, the departure of Dara O’Shea to Burnley stings, given his roots in the Baggies Academy and his emergence as a crucial player in the squad.
O’Shea’s standout performances in the 22/23 season, earning praise from former boss Steve Bruce and current manager Corberan, showcased his potential as a future leader on the pitch. His commanding presence and defensive prowess helped West Brom secure clean sheets and climb the league table.
Despite the loss of O’Shea, Burnley’s acquisition of the talented defender for £7m signifies his value in the market and the profit West Brom reaped from nurturing him through their youth system.
As O’Shea appears poised to bid farewell to his Turf Moor tenure this summer, expectations are that his departure could spark a bidding war exceeding his previous £7 million price tag. Recent assessments on Football Transfers indicate a significant leap in his current market value to £12.1 million, reflecting his commendable contributions to Burnley amid their ongoing struggles against relegation.
Despite showcasing adeptness with three goals and four assists while orchestrating play from the backline in the Premier League, O’Shea’s solitary clean sheet in 33 league appearances hints at a missed defensive solidity. Reflecting on his past stint, spectators might question if Burnley undersold him to Celtic last season, now faced with the prospect of the Scottish club aiming for his signature to amplify their ranks.
Meanwhile, West Brom eyes O’Shea as an ideal addition to their defensive roster following Kipre’s departure, a void that necessitates swift filling in the upcoming transfer window. Although absent during their recent playoff pursuit, O’Shea’s prospective arrival could bolster West Brom’s resilience as they gear up for another competitive season following the loss of key defensive personnel.