West Brom set to announce Filip Krovinovic deal

The midfielder impressed in 43 outings for the Baggies last season – playing a key role both on and off the pitch in the club’s promotion to the Premier League.

Head coach Slaven Bilic has made it clear throughout the transfer window he saw Krovinovic’s return as a priority.

The Baggies have been locked in negotiations with Benfica for months trying to strike a deal for the 25-year-old.

And finally last week a breakthrough was made.

It is understood Krovinovic – who has been told he isn’t part of Benfica’s long-term plans – will move to The Hawthorns on loan.

But it is also expected to be announced he has signed a 12-month contract extension with the Portuguese side – as they look to protect the value of their asset.

The Express & Star understands Krovinovic signed his loan agreement with Albion yesterday.

But the Baggies were waiting on some international paperwork before they could announce the deal – with that announcement now likely to be today.

Speaking last week, Bilic hailed Krovinovic as the ‘complete’ midfield player.

“He’s a complete midfield player,” the boss said.

“He’s got a bit of everything – he’s comfortable on the ball, he gives everything.

“In the second half of the season he became more of a goal threat than when he joined us.

“With him you can be versatile. He’s an unsung hero – you don’t see it straight away when you’re watching the game, but he’s helping the players be in a better position or better situation.

“He’s always available, a box-to-box midfielder who gives everything.

“That’s why I insisted on him.”

As well as Krovinovic, Albion are also working to sign a striker on loan with Huddersfield’s Karlan Grant understood to be Bilic’s number one target.

Premier League rules state you are only allowed two domestic loans – with the Baggies having already brought in Conor Gallagher on a temporary basis from Chelsea.

But you can bring in multiple players on loan from abroad – meaning Krovinovic’s arrival will not scupper Albion’s move for a striker.

While Bilic is determined to land another centre-forward, he is also pleased with how Callum Robinson is developing in the role.

The 25-year-old has played the majority of his football on the left-wing – but netted with two excellent finishes in the 3-3 draw with Chelsea.

“He is not a natural striker but he has the attributes to play there,” Bilic said.

“He is mobile, he can run, he can sprint, he can stretch a defence and he is a really good finisher – he showed that against Chelsea.”

Meanwhile, Charlie Austin has been linked with a move to Derby.

The striker is reportedly available for transfer having been left out of Albion’s last two Premier League squads.