West Bromwich Albion boss Slaven Bilic was adamant that he wanted to sign Matheus Pereira in the summer, despite the fact negotiations might’ve led the Baggies to swerve the deal.  

Pereira has been fantastic for Albion this season in the Championship, with the playmaker’s form helping Bilic’s side into a fantastic position in the promotion race.

Featuring in 33 Championship fixtures, the 23-year-old as scored six goals and registered 12 assists, with Pereira nailing down a reputation as one of the second-tier’s most creative players.

Yet, it could’ve been very different given Albion’s difficulties in signing Pereira from Sporting Lisbon in the summer.

The Athletic report that negotiations in sealing the deal were so tricky that Albion might’ve walked away in different circumstances, but Bilic was ‘adamant’ he wanted to sign Pereira as he looked to mould a squad capable of promotion.

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Bilic inherited a squad that were beaten by Aston Villa in last season’s play-off semi-finals, but with only nine games of this season remaining, the Baggies are second in the table and six points clear of Fulham in third, leaving promotion firmly within touching distance.

When the season can resume, full focus will be on converting this position into Premier League football.

The Verdict

Boy, you’ve got to imagine that Albion are delighted that Bilic was adamant that he wanted Pereira on board.

The 23-year-old has been key to this season’s promotion push and without him, you doubt that Albion would’ve been in such a strong position.

When we reflect on the 2019/20 season, you might say that Bilic’s persistence was the difference between a third year in the Championship and a Premier League return.

Thoughts? Let us know!