EXCLUSIVE - Leeds United close in on West Brom youngster Roberts

Leeds United are in advanced talks over the permanent signing of West Bromwich Albion striker Tyler Roberts, the YEP understands.
Tyler Roberts, centre, with Wales' squad.Tyler Roberts, centre, with Wales' squad.
Tyler Roberts, centre, with Wales' squad.

The Elland Road club hope to pull off a deal for highly-rated Roberts ahead of tomorrow’s 11pm transfer deadline after the arrival of Daniel Sturridge at The Hawthorns persuaded West Brom to let the 19-year-old leave.

Roberts’ contract with Albion ends in the summer and West Brom’s failure to agree improved terms with him was threatening to leave them at the mercy of a tribunal fee in the summer.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Leeds have been in the market for a striker in the latter stages of the January window but looked set to draw a blank in the final hours. They are ready, however, to finance an initial fee of around £2.5m.

Elland RoadElland Road
Elland Road

Roberts recently returned to The Hawthorns from a half-season loan at Walsall and was expected to figure under West Brom manager Alan Pardew during the second half of the Premier League term.

Sturridge, however, made an unexpected loan move to West Brom from Liverpool on Monday evening, rejecting Newcastle United in favour of joining Pardew’s squad.

Roberts is now be allowed to move on following an intense chase for the teenager’s signature this month.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The forward, who has represented Wales at Under-21 level and been on the verge of a full cap, was reported to have interested Rangers and several French teams, all of whom had the right to negotiate a pre-contract deal with him.

Leeds, however, appear on course to secure his signature and are aiming to put Roberts through a medical after holding talks with West Brom today.