In-form forward reportedly open to West Brom transfer talks

West Bromwich Albion look set to be on the lookout for a short-term solution after losing Daryl Dike to injury. 

Dike has picked up a hamstring injury that’s set to rule the striker out of action for eight weeks. That will mean he misses 11 crucial fixtures as Valerien Ismael’s side look to work their way back into top-two contention in the Championship.

It’s expected that West Brom will now re-enter the transfer market on the lookout for another striker to add to Ismael’s squad.

Interestingly, The Athletic have noted that Andy Carroll is someone that would be ‘open to a chat’ with the Baggies about a potential agreement.

Carroll has most recently been on the books at Reading, earning £1,000-per-week with the Royals on a short-term deal.

That deal has now expired, with the option to remain with Reading still there. However, Carroll is open to other offers as the 33-year-old weighs up his next move.

The Athletic confirm that there’s been no approach by West Brom for the former Newcastle United and Liverpool striker, although he would be open to discussions with the Baggies after their fixture with Preston North End in the Championship.

Carroll struck twice in eight games for Reading in the Championship, also registering an assist, as the striker put injury troubles behind him to play almost 600 minutes of football.

The Verdict 

There is no denying that Andy Carroll has all the quality to step into West Brom’s squad and make an impact in the absence of Dike.

As is always the case with Carroll, though, it’s all about his fitness and whether Ismael can trust the 33-year-old to keep himself fit.

West Brom’s style of football is intense and would push Carroll hard. That will weigh on the mind of both parties if discussions do