Express & Star

West Brom interested in Croatian keeper Ivo Grbic

Croatian Ivo Grbic is among the goalkeepers Albion are interested in signing this summer, the Express & Star understands.

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Ivo Grbic (Photo: Ailura)

The 24-year-old, who currently plays for Lokomotiva Zagreb in his homeland, has been hailed by pundits as the best shot-stopper in the Croatian First League. Like Albion head coach Slaven Bilic, Grbic began his career at Hajduk Split.

But a lack of first-team opportunities saw him reject the offer of a new contract at the Stadion Poljud in favour of a move to Lokomotiva.

The keeper’s performances in Zagreb have led to interest from elsewhere with Belgian outfit Anderlecht recently linked with a move for the glovesman.

And it is understood Grbic is a player Bilic has also been keeping tabs on – with the keeper seen as someone who could provide genuine competition to Sam Johnstone for the number one jersey.

It is believed Lokomotiva are looking for a fee of around £2million for Grbic.

But while a bid has not yet been made, that would appeal to Albion who are determined to box clever in the transfer market this summer.

As well as Grbic, Wigan’s David Marshall is another goalkeeper the Baggies are believed to be monitoring.

Meanwhile, promising Baggies shot-stopper Alex Palmer is close to joining Lincoln City on loan, according to reports.

The Kidderminster-born keeper enjoyed a hugely successful loan spell at Plymouth last season – with the 24-year-old playing an integral role in the Pilgrims promotion from League Two.

That form saw him rewarded with a new three-year deal at The Hawthorns last month.

Albion are believed to want Palmer to continue his development by going out on loan and playing each week.

And a move to League One Lincoln would allow him to team up with former Albion under-23 boss Michael Appleton.

But the Express & Star understands a loan move for Palmer will not be sanctioned by the Baggies until they are clear who will be competing with Johnstone for the number one shirt next season.

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