Filip Krovinovic set for West Brom return
Albion are close to re-signing Filip Krovinovic on loan from Benfica, Slaven Bilic has confirmed.
The midfielder played 43 times for the Baggies last season and was a key figure both on and off the field in the club's promotion to the Premier League.
Last week head coach Bilic stressed that he saw re-signing Krovinovic as a priority with the boss saying he would be "extremely disappointed" if he didn't return.
But after drawn out negotiations, a breakthrough has finally been made.
The Express & Star understands Krovinovic will sign a new deal with Benfica before re-joining the Baggies on loan.
The Portuguese club had wanted a clause in the agreement that meant Albion had an obligation to buy the player at the end of the 2020/21 campaign.
But it is understood there is no clause in regards to any future transfer with Krovinovic simply joining on a 12-month loan.
"It will happen in the next couple of days," Bilic said when asked about a deal for Krovinovic.
"I’ve been told that Filip will be here by the weekend.
"I am expecting him to start training with us after we play Chelsea.
"I have been assured by the director he will come.
"Until it is over the line, you can never guarantee it. But it looks like everything is sorted with Benfica and with him for another loan deal."
Meanwhile, the Express & Star understands there is no truth in reports linking the Baggies with a move for free agent Emmanuel Adebayor.
Reports had suggested Albion would move for the former Arsenal, Tottenham and Real Madrid man if they don’t sign a forward before the window closes.
Alongside Grant, Albion have registered an interest in Watford duo Andre Gray and Troy Deeney. They have also spoken to Rennes about M’Baye Niang. But they are not interested in Adebayor, or Islam Slimani who has also been linked.
