The new Premier League (PL) season is about to kick start this weekend with a London derby. However, the signing spree by the clubs will carry on beyond the start of the campaign and some big names are likely to make their way to England in the coming days. Branislav Ivanovic is one such name.
The financial power that the English team possess are matched by none and hence time again the so called smaller teams in the league also seen attracting some big names. That will certainly be the case once again as one familiar face is tipped to return to Premier League.
However, Newly promoted side West Bromwich Albion are believed to be in talks with Serbian international Branislav Ivanovic, as per reports in The Telegraph.
Ivanovic is regarded as a legend of Chelsea during his nine year stay at the Stamford Bridge. He made over 370 for the Blues, winning 10 trophies at the club including three league titles and the Champions League. He joined Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2017 and added to his title list in three years with the club.
Branislav Ivanovic left Zenit this summer following the conclusion of his contract. The prospect of getting the 36-year-old for free is a big positive for the Baggies. Manager Slaven Bilic is known to be a big admirer of the player and have tried to sign him in the past during his time at West Ham. That time it did not happen but it looks more than likely to happen this summer.
The Serb would provide the much needed experience and leadership skills for the Midlands outfit. West Brom looked thin on the experience front following Chris Brunt’s departure to Bristol City and Gareth Barry bidding the game adieu. So, Ivanovic might prove to be a huge coup for them.
He is likely to be offered a short term deal and move to the Hawthorns on a one-year-contract. As per reports he will sign the contract and be present at the Stadium when West Brom take on Leicester in their season opener on Sunday.