Noel Whelan has claimed that West Bromwich Albion would be making a "very good signing" if they manage to sign Mason Holgate from Everton.

The Baggies have reportedly made an enquiry to re-sign Holgate on loan this summer following his spell at The Hawthorns during the second half of last season, but Everton are thought to be only be interested in a permanent deal.

The 22-year-old made 19 Championship appearances during Albion's promotion push under Darren Moore and then Jimmy Shan, establishing himself as a prominent figure in defence as the club reached the play-off semi-finals.

However, former Leeds striker Whelan believes Holgate did not quite live up to expectations during his first stint at the club, but thinks the defender has all the traits to be an excellent addition for the Baggies.

“I think you can see the quality there, he’s aggressive, he’s got energy, he’s got pace," Whelan told Football Insider.

“Everyone seemed to think he was going to be head and shoulders above everybody else. That’s not always the case. What you have got is a wing-back with loads of energy, good temperament, can read the game.

“West Brom are obviously looking to freshen things up and I think Holgate’s a very good signing. You’ve got a player there that’s come from Everton and is a very good football player.”

The verdict

I think it's hard to disagree with Whelan's comments, as Holgate is still a young player who has shown plenty of promising signs in his career so far.

The fact he cemented his place as a regular in the West Brom side following his arrival is indicative of the qualities he evidently possesses, as he is strong in both defence and attack and has the versatility to play in several positions.

Albion would be pulling off a great piece of business if they can secure Holgate on a temporary deal, but a permanent move may be more of a gamble as the club has only just signed right-back Darnell Furlong.

It will be difficult to keep both these right-backs satisfied over a longer period, but maybe Albion are looking at Holgate as a possible centre-back option. If this is the case, they should definitely push ahead with the deal.