West Brom pounce with bid for €800k 'star man' as contract talks stall

West Bromwich Albion have reportedly sent an opening bid to sign Djurgarden midfielder Besard Sabovic.

The 26-year-old has been a star man for the Allsvenskan outfit so far this campaign, scoring three goals in 15 appearances. As the Swedish season runs from late March until early November, Sabovic is midway through the 2024 term.

Expressen reports West Brom, who, have been keeping a close eye on Sabovic’s progress, have submitted an offer to Djurgarden. As the former Sweden Under-21 international’s contract expires on December 31 of this year, Albion are hoping they can lure him away for a bargain fee.

West Brom have been boosted in their pursuit as it’s claimed that talks have stalled between Sabovic and Djurgarden over a new contract. With finances limited in Swedish football, a bid of anywhere near Sabovic’s current market value of €800,000 (£682,000) could be very tempting.

Now 16 matches into the 30-game season, Djurgarden are in second place and closely chasing league leaders Malmo. With a game in hand, Sabovic and his teammates will have hope of reaching the summit of the standings.

That current battle for the title could perhaps scupper West Brom’s chances somewhat given the excitement building. That said, an opportunity to sign for a team in the top half of English’s second tier may not come around again.

Born in Macedonia but a representative of Sweden, Sabovic has experience of playing on the nearby continent. The midfielder, also capable of featuring as a centre-forward, played seven times in the UEFA Europa Conference League during the 2022/23 season.