Burnley are keen to sign West Brom defensive ace Craig Dawson this summer, it has been claimed.
The Clarets are monitoring Dawson — who has changed his agent to facilitate a move to the Premier League — and will have to compete with Watford who are also keeping tabs on him as per the Sun.
Sean Dyche’s side left it late last season after a poor first half of the season, and need to add more freshness to their squad if they are to replicate the 2017-18 season’s exploits.
Burnley conceded 68 goals last season, and the addition of someone like Dawson would improve the squad depth.
Craig Dawson: Profile
Dawson started his senior career at Radcliffe Borough and then, he moved to Rochdale before signing for West Brom in the summer of 2010.
Loan moves back to Rochdale, and to Bolton Wanderers followed, which helped him progress at a steady rate with regular football.
The 29-year old has been one of the most consistent players for the Baggies in the last couple of seasons, and made 43 appearances in the Championship this past season.
Why Burnley should make a serious effort to sign Craig Dawson
Dawson is a solid central defender, and his aerial prowess and mentality to put his body on the line would fit align well with Dyche’s philosophy.
The 29-year old mustered 1.3 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, and 3.3 clearances per game last season, and was one of the standout players for the club as they missed out on promotion back to the top flight.
Dawson is also versatile and can feature as an emergency right-back if required, having done so for West Brom on a number of occasions during their spell in the Premier League.
His defensive numbers prove that he would be a shrewd addition to the club, and considering he is 29 and at the peak of his prowess, the Baggies should make a serious attempt to sign him.
Dawson has just another year left on his current contract, so he is unlikely to cost a lot of money either. Dyche wants to bring the player, so the board should back him as Dawson would only strengthen the team’s defence.