This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict’ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
West Brom are the latest club to show an interest in Aston Villa striker Cameron Archer, as per a report from the Express & Star.
The report states that the 20-year-old is being considered as a strike partner to Daryl Dike, whilst Middlesbrough, Watford and Rangers are all believed to be interested too, as per an update from talkSPORT's Alex Crook.
Archer thoroughly impressed whilst on a loan spell with Preston North End during the second half of last season, scoring seven goals and providing a further assist in 20 Championship outings.
Steven Gerrard is set to run the rule over the exciting attacker during this summer, with Villa expected to make a decision about his next step rather late on in the window.
Three of our writers here at FLW have shared their thoughts regarding West Brom's interest in the Aston Villa starlet...
Josh Cole
This would be a superb bit of business by West Brom if they are able to win the race for Archer's signature this summer.
During his recent loan spell at Preston, the forward managed to showcase his talent as he scored seven goals for the club in the second-tier.
By learning from Steve Bruce's guidance, there is every chance that Archer will make considerable strides in terms of his development at The Hawthorns.
Providing that he is able to maintain his fitness, it wouldn't be at all surprising if the forward helps the Baggies launch a push for promotion over the course of the 2022/23 campaign.
Declan Harte
West Brom seem intent on reinforcing their forward line this summer despite having the likes of Daryl Dike and Callum Robinson up front.
Archer performed well for Preston North End in the second half of last season and is ready to compete for a top Championship side.
The Baggies seem an odd fit, but this move indicates that Steve Bruce will be looking to utilise two up front in attack again next season.
A partnership of Dike and Archer could be lethal if they can really click.
Getting guaranteed playing minutes should be the forward’s main preference this summer and this could work out excellently for all parties if Bruce’s plan comes to fruition.
Simmey Hannifin-Donaldson
There is no doubting Cameron Archer's abilities.
His seven goals on loan at Preston in the second half of last campaign showed what an exciting prospect he is, and if he departs Villa on loan this summer, the club who get him will be very lucky.
However, I wouldn't say this is an absolute priority for West Brom this summer.
They spent big money on Daryl Dike in January and are yet to see him show what he can do, and they also have Karlan Grant on the books, who scored 18 goals and registered six assists in the Championship last season.
As such, whilst Archer would be a good addition, his signing shouldn't be a priority for West Brom this summer, particularly if they also bring in Dwight Gayle.