Harry Whitwell hints at possible loan after penning new West Brom deal

Highly-rated teenage midfielder Whitwell, who turns 20 in November, has long been on the fringes of the first-team squad at The Hawthorns and made his senior debut 18 months ago.

His existing deal expired next summer and Albion have moved to secure the immediate future of the attack-minded midfielder.

Whitwell, who made his league debut on the final day of last season against Luton, is yet to taste the full experience of a loan move away from the Baggies and hinted it could be on the cards as he looks to enjoy a breakthrough season.

"I’m really happy to have the confidence shown in me by the club to give me another two years," Whitwell said.

“This will allow me now to have the security to push on at Albion this season and try and get first-team football, whether be here or on loan somewhere. 

“I was over the moon with my Championship debut against Luton at the end of the last campaign. 

“It was a really great way to end the season on a high and as a kid coming through the academy, you’re always dreaming of making that first-team debut in the league. 

“You’ve got to keep breaking new boundaries and that’s what I plan on doing this year.”

Whitwell is highly-regarded by all at the club including head coach Ryan Mason, who had the academy graduate on the bench as one of only two youngsters in his side's final pre-season friendly against Rayo Vallecano last weekend.

There has previously been interest in his services on loan, notably from League Two Cheltenham in January.

Oxford-born Whitwell previously played for his home city club but has been with the Baggies since he was 11.

Sporting director Andrew Nestor said: "I am pleased that he will continue his journey with us, having earned his Hawthorns league debut this past May.

“We all hope that this can serve as the catalyst for him in his years ahead with the Albion, and that our other young talent can draw inspiration from Harry’s pathway.”