Lawrence links with WBA seem to be wide of the mark
WEST Bromwich Albion have distanced themselves from reports that they are interested in signing Derby County captain Tom Lawrence.
The Rams skipper is one of a number of players out of contract at Pride Park Stadium this summer.
Rangers and Sheffield United have both been linked with a move for the winger but it was reported yesterday that the Baggies were closing in on his signature.
But the Championship club have played down those claims, which come after Rangers also rejected speculation they were interested in the 28-year-old.
It is believed the Baggies have other priorities in the transfer market ahead of Lawrence, who will be available on a free transfer once his
Rams contract expires on June 30 – but he is not the only player whose future is up in the air.
Players such as Ravel Morrison and Curtis Davies are also out of contract and loose discussions were had with all of the players about their futures at the end of last season. But the collapse of Chris Kirchner’s takeover caused major disruption to getting their futures secured.
Clowes Developments are now in pole position to complete a deal after the American businessman withdrew his offer for the club two weeks ago. Clowes have also issued a loan to the Rams to enable them to start the season, with the money enabling the club to put season tickets on sale.
A completion date for the takeover has been set for today by the Rams’ administrators, Quantuma, with Clowes Developments having already purchased Pride Park Sta
TALK OF RANGERS AND BLADES BEING KEEN ON LANDING SKIPPER, TOO
dium from previous owner Mel Morris.
Transfers and the futures of the’ out-of-contract players will be a priority, although the club are still waiting for clearance from the EFL that will enable them to enter the market.
It would also allow them to offer contracts to players whose deals expire this summer.
On Monday, players returned to pre-season training, with Louie Sibley, Krystian Bielik and Max Bird reported to be among them.