If the latest reports are to be believed, West Bromwich Albion have put Burnley’s attacking midfielder Scott Arfield on their radar in order to beef up the quality of their midfield. The Baggies churned a decent season in the Premier League last term, bagging the 10th spot on the league table and it goes without saying that they would have to now uplift their yardsticks and possibly aim for a place in the European competitions.
In order to do the needful, Tony Pulis has to make shrewd deals and getting someone with the experience of the English top flight would be one of the main criteria he would look for. Albion are aware of the fact that Arfield’s contract confining him to Turf Moor expires next summer and for around £2.5million, they could really tempt the Clarets and aid Pulis in his pursuit of luring him to the Hawthorns.
The 28-year-old didn’t have a stupendous season in the Premier League last term, having scored merely 1 goal and failed to accumulate any assist to his name in 31 appearances under Sean Dyche. However, there is no dearth of his admirers who believe that he has the calibre which he put on his tray in Burnley’s last promotion winning campaign, with Hull City and Fulham, also believed to be closely monitoring his situation at Burnley.
Arfield is a complete utility package in the midfield sector owing to his versatility of plying his trade in the central midfield, attacking midfield as well as on the left wing. He has perennially been a threat to the opposition during the counter-attacks and always intends to keep the game ticking for his employers in the final third. The Canadian International is a calm and composed player and has the requisite technical understanding of the game as well.
There is always an element of risk involved when players from other leagues across the continent are lured and many times, they fail to erect a strong footing for themselves amidst the animosity which Premier League has on offer. In the former Huddersfield Town man, who also boasts of adequate experience, the Throstles would be getting someone who is proven and is in tune with the rigours of Premier League football.
Although the deal might not be a groundbreaking one, Arfield is someone who can upgrade the aura of Pulis’ midfield. Moreover, after the departure of Darren Fletcher to Stoke City, the Baggies are in a dire need of bagging someone who has adequate experience and someone like Arfield doesn’t leave a lot to be desired.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
