West Bromwich Albion are close to signing Brighton & Hove Albion defender Matt Clarke for around £5 million, according to a report from The Daily Mail.

Baggies boss Valerien Ismael will undoubtedly be keen to bolster his defensive ranks at the Hawthorns this summer.

West Brom conceded 76 goals in 38 Premier League games last season. That quite simply isn’t good enough whatever division you’re competing in.

West Brom target Matt Clarke in action during a loan spell with Derby last season

However, it seems as though the Black Country outfit are already making moves to address that particular problem.

West Brom to sign Matt Clarke

The Daily Mail claims that the Baggies are actually very close to bringing the 24-year-old centre-back to the Hawthorns.

The Seagulls ace has spent the last two seasons away from the Amex Stadium on loan with Derby County.

Clarke in action last season

Clarke really impressed for the Rams.

In 42 Championship appearances last season, the centre-back averaged 1.4 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 4.3 clearances per game.

He is an absolute monster in the air and won an average of 5.6 aerial duels per match last term.

£5 million seems like very good value for Clarke. He is a gritty, no-nonsense defender and understands what Championship football is all about.

This one seems like an absolute no brainer for the Baggies.

Stats obtained via WhoScored.

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