West Brom weigh up defensive additions with former star poised to join rivals
Albion are weighing up their defensive targets ahead of next season with former centre-back Semi Ajayi poised to sign for Hull City.
The Nigeria international was released last month after six years with the Baggies and is expected to remain in the Championship by agreeing to terms with the Tigers.
While Ajayi featured little in a final campaign at The Hawthorns disrupted by injury, his departure has left a hole in defence and at least one defensive recruit is expected in the summer transfer window.
Liverpool centre-back Nat Phillips is among those to have been linked after spending last season on loan at Derby.
The 28-year-old, who has made 19 Premier League appearances for the Reds, is entering the final 12 months of his contract at Anfield. Nottingham Forest full-back Harry Toffolo is also reportedly on Albion’s radar.
New Baggies boss Ryan Mason will, meanwhile, run the rule over Caleb Taylor in pre-season.
The 22-year-old academy product, who signed a four-year contract last summer, is highly-rated inside the club and enjoyed an impressive season on loan with Wycombe in League One during the 2024-25 season.
Albion are continuing to monitor the situation around Scotland international striker Lawrence Shankland, who is yet to decide his future with his contract at Hearts due to expire later this month.
