West Brom transfers: Steve Clarke wants to tie up Saido Berahino deal
West Brom transfers: Steve Clarke says he wants to tie Saido Berahino down to a new deal after the striker scored against Palace
Steve Clarke admitted he wants Saido Berahino to sign a new West Bromwich Albion deal as soon as possible after the striker scored in their win against Crystal Palace.
The 20-year-old, who netted the winner at Old Trafford last month, broke the deadlock at the Hawthorns on the stroke of half-time before Gareth McAuley sealed the win with seven minutes remaining.
The Baggies forward, who is reportedly earning £850-a-week, has now scored 10 goals for his club and England Under-21s this season, and Clarke is understandably keen to secure the youngster’s future to warn off potential suitors.
“We are in negotiations with Saido’s representatives and if I was the club, I would get it done as soon as possible,” Clarke told BBC Sport.
“For Saido, the most important thing is that he continues to develop as a player.
“That is what I am trying to do with him here and I think he is happy to work with me along those lines.
“My own personal opinion is that he is not quite ready for full international football.”
Meanwhile, Palace caretaker manager Keith Millen admitted the Eagles need to fill Ian Holloway’s void to reignite their season.
“It is not an easy situation, with all the speculation about when the manager is going to come in and who it will be.
“The players have been focused – I don’t think you can accuse them of not concentrating on the job in hand. But it is a tough time for everyone at the club really.
“The chairman is not going to rush into it. He needs to appoint the right person.
“But I think the sooner someone does come in, the better – then there will be new ideas, a fresh voice and hopefully a little bit of luck.”
