West Bromwich Albion have got off to the perfect start in their Championship season. Ryan Mason’s side have aspirations of returning to the Premier League for the first time since 2021, and although they sit outside of OPTA’s top six favourites to get promoted, have won two from two so far.
The Baggies have been making moves in the transfer market, like signing Birmingham City’s captain, Krystian Bielik, as a replacement for Torbjorn Heggem.
Bielik’s arrival was joined by Man Utd youngster Toby Collyer, whose attitude behind the scenes has been impressing the gaffer.
Mason praises Collyer before Portsmouth clash
West Brom’s season-long loan deal does not include an option/obligation to buy, but perhaps it is something the board will consider working on if the early indications are anything to go by.
The defensive midfielder spoke candidly during United’s pre-season tour about his desire to get minutes this season, whether that be at United or out on loan, and although he has only been seen by Baggies fans for a few moments so far, Mason like what he’s seen.
“Good kid, humble, wants to work, wants to be part of it and you can feel that as soon as you speak to him,” he said ahead of the clash with Pompey.
“He wants to play football, loves football, and that’s super important. We want those types of people in the building who want to work, put in the work, and be part of something.”
West Brom have a real talent on their hands for the next season, and United not including a buy option is a testament to their belief in him, as while he's not Premier League quality right now, they believe he will be in the near future.
The player was also clearly eager for this move as the Manchester Evening News reported that over a dozen Championship sides had inquired about Collyer’s availability, with it coming down to West Brom and Hull in the final few days.
Hull’s interest in the player went as far as the manager, Sergej Jakirovic, speaking publicly about their interest in him: “We’re waiting now for a decision from Man United and Toby as well… he can run 12km, he’s good on the ball and he’s a bit like Joel Ndala. He has a big potential, and he has hunger and ambition, and this is what we’re searching for.”
With the amount of interest in Collyer, the player must see something at West Brom that allures him. Given the promise United see in him and his desire to be at the club, perhaps the two parties could achieve the team’s promotion ambitions.