West Brom braced for George Thorne bid
Derby have opened talks with Albion over a permanent deal for midfielder George Thorne – and the Rams are preparing to test the Baggies' resolve with a firm bid.
Derby boss Steve McClaren has made the 21-year-old his top summer transfer target after an impressive loan spell helped the East Midlands side reach the Championship play-offs.
And Rams chief executive Sam Rush has confirmed discussions have taken place with officials at The Hawthorns, with an offer set to follow to sign the Baggies academy graduate on a permanent deal.
"I have spoken to West Brom about George and made it clear we think highly of him and would like to explore the possibility of bringing him here," said Rush.
"Obviously, West Brom are in a slightly different position to us. They have not got a head coach and they have some changes they are undertaking.
"So, I would counsel patience but at the same time I would also confirm to fans we believe very much in George."