Express & Star

West Brom in Eberechi Eze race

Albion are in the hunt for QPR's Eberechi Eze but the midfielder favours a move to Crystal Palace, the Express & Star understands.

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Queens Park Rangers' Eberechi Eze.

Widely seen as one of the best players outside the Premier League, Eze has just one year remaining on his deal at Loftus Road and looks destined to move to the top flight during the current transfer window.

The Hoops are believed to be demanding between £15million and £18million for the 22-year-old who is at his best in the number 10 role or out wide on the left.

That figure is more than Albion would be willing to pay in one cash sum.

But it is understood the Baggies have made an offer that would see QPR receive the money in instalments over the next four years.

While QPR would rather receive more money upfront, knowing they are guaranteed a cash windfall every year appeals when all football clubs are still trying to understand their finances post COVID-19.

And that has led to them agreeing to a package that could see Eze move to The Hawthorns.

Albion are keen on the player because they believe he will immediately improve their attacking options.

But they also believe the 22-year-old is destined for the very top and has a significant re-sale value.

And it's that re-sale value that has helped convince QPR to accept their offer – with the Baggies having agreed a significant sell-on clause with the London side should Eze shine in the top flight and attract interest from the Premier League's biggest clubs.

But while Albion are keen on Eze so to are a host of other clubs in the top flight with Fulham and Palace known admirers.

And as it stands, it is understood the Greenwich-born player would rather stay in the capital with Palace said to be his preferred destination.

Meanwhile, Albion have decided not to offer full season tickets for the new campaign with the club not yet sure how many games will be played behind closed doors.

Fans who have already bought season tickets for 2020/21 can transfer their purchase to the 2021/22 campaign at the frozen price they paid during the early bird window.

Alternatively, supporters can request a refund.

Fans who held 2019/20 season tickets, in addition to those who opt for a refund, will have their seats placed on hold and available to renew for the 2021/22 campaign.

It is anticipated 2020/21 matchday tickets - in limited numbers due to social distancing - will initially be sold by ballot, as and when supporters are permitted to return to stadiums.

Operations director Mark Miles said: “It’s important to stress just how much we appreciate the patience and support of our fans as we continue to cope with these challenging conditions and the financial impact they bring to the Club’s operations.

“We know just how much our supporters would have wanted to be there to back the players on their return to the Premier League but that remains out of our hands at the moment.

“We are anxious for fans to return to the stadium as soon as we can, but clearly this must happen in a safe way and in full adherence to government protocols.

“In the meantime, we hope supporters will see these measures as reasonable and fair.

"Naturally, we will update them the moment we know more and again, thank them for their patience.”

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