Go for it Pardew – This £18m Premier League club captain could save West Brom from relegation

Why West Brom must sign Troy Deeney to add some much-needed boost to their attack

West Bromwich Albion have been interested in Watford frontman Troy Deeney ever since this window commenced and with deadline day fast approaching, the club are understood to be edging closer to completing a last-minute deal. A bid of £18m is believed to be on the table and new manager Alan Pardew is keen on ensuring Deeney arrives at the Hawthorns Stadium before the ongoing window comes to an end.

The player may not have endured a favourable campaign so far with the Hornets but he can put his skills to work and ensure the Baggies preserve their top-flight status beyond this season. Currently sitting at 19th place in the table, West Brom are on par with bottom-placed Swansea in terms of points but are one place ahead solely due to the goal difference. In order to pull themselves out of relegation trouble, an experienced and technically gifted player like Deeney could work wonders.

This season, he has been utilised more as an impact substitute instead of a regular starter. He might be one of Watford’s veteran players but his performances this season have hardly been encouraging. He has contributed just 3 goals and 2 assists and one might wonder why West Brom are even targetting him in the first place.

However, every time Deeney is on the field, there can be no denying that his experience and leadership skills often turn things in Watford’s favour even if he is not directly involved. Having made just 8 starts in the Premier League so far, it is highly likely that the player could be in search of regular game time and that is something he can receive at West Brom.

The Hornets have Andre Gray, who has proven to be quite resourceful and thus, they might be willing to part ways with Deeney. This might not sit well with a lot of fans but it could be a necessary step for new manager Javi Gracia as he aims to rebuild the squad.

At present, the Baggies are devoid of any quality attackers up front. That was reflected in their performances since they have really struggled for goals. More often than not, the Baggies have looked stale in the final third with no creative energy whatsoever. If they are to win games and climb up the points table, they need more goals and to that extent, a player like Deeney could prove to be a blessing in disguise.

When allotted enough game time, the 29-year-old can be lethal and that is exactly what Pardew will be hoping to get. However, the manager does not have much time in hand and if West Brom are truly keen on Deeney, they will have to make a move soon.