Tony Pulis has been told that West Bromwich Albion are yet to receive any approaches for Saido Berahino, their star striker.
The 21-year-old is fast earning a reputation as one of the best young talents in the country, having scored 22 goals in 60 appearances for the Baggies in all competitions. This includes a four-goal haul in the FA Cup third-round tie against Gateshead on Saturday afternoon, although he further sparked speculation over his future by refusing to celebrate any of his strikes.
Berahino, who was named in England’s senior squad last year, has been the subject of reported interest from rival clubs for much of the season, fuelled by the fact he is out of contract at the end of the campaign. Talks over a new deal are thought to have stalled in November when he was investigated for an alleged drink-drive offence, a charge he continues to await the outcome of.
Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have both been credited with an interest in the Burundi-born player, and it has been claimed that the Hawthorns club would be prepared to let him leave this month for a fee in the region of £20million. However, it appears as though new Albion manager Pulis is no rush to let him leave, as he looks to fire the club up the Premier League standings.
“Berahino is a very talented boy,” Pulis said. “There is always going to be transfer speculation and you can see why. He has great pace, great balance and scores goals. But when I came in here the chairman had not received any offer for him and we will try our damnedest to try and improve him. He’s got great ability, he obviously scores goals and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Would £20million be enough for West Brom to sell Berahino, or should they ask for more? Let us know what you think by joining the discussion below.
