West Brom should look to secure the return of Aston Villa centre-back James Chester in a bid to shore up their defence ahead of next season.

The 29-year-old was one of Villa’s stand-out players as they reached the play-off final. However, with the club looking to cut the wage bill, selling him could just happen.

Chester was at the heart of one of the league’s most intimidating defences as he played in every single minute of the campaign. Alongside former England captain John Terry, he helped ensure Villa just conceded 42 goals in the league and only one in their three play-off fixtures. His 7.7 clearances and 0.9 blocks per game were the highest of any player in the side.

Despite this sensational season, Steve Bruce has suggested the club could sell him. The pressures of the financial fair-play regulations mean that Villa are going to have to offload key players after failing to secure promotion via the play-offs.

Having been bought for £9 million off the Baggies in 2016, Chester will be key to helping balance the books. It is thought that his value will have increased following two impressive seasons, but circumstances may lead to a lower than otherwise price.

From West Brom’s perspective, defensive reinforcements are sorely needed. The departure of Jonny Evans has left a sizeable hole in the centre of defence that needs filling if they are to get back up. If Darren Moore can secure his return, Chester could well fill that hole.

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