Talks begin: Cedric Kipre development emerges with West Brom exit possible | OneFootball

Trabzonspor are interested in signing West Brom centre back Cedric Kipre in the summer transfer window.

That's according to a report from Turkish outlet Sabah, who say that the club are already in talks with the 27-year-old.

Kipre is out of contract at West Brom this summer, meaning he is set to be available on a free transfer as things stand.

The Baggies confirmed in their end of season retained list that they have offered the Ivorian a new contract.

However, it seems as though West Brom are going to face some significant competition from Europe for the services of the defender this summer.

Trabzonspor working on deal for Cedric Kipre

As per this latest update, Trabzonspor are keen to sign Kipre this summer, following the expiry of his contract with the Baggies.

Indeed, it is thought that the Turkish club are already in talks to sign the centre back, with discussions said to be at an advanced stage.

Trabzonspor manager Abdullah Avci is also said to be an admirer of Kipre, and is therefore also keen to bring him on board.

For his part, Kipre himself is reportedly keen on a move to Trabzonspor, following his four years on the books at West Brom.

He initially joined the Baggies in the summer of 2020, but struggled to establish himself until last season, previously spending time out on loan with the likes of Charleroi and Cardiff City.

The 2023/24 campaign though, saw Kipre become a vital part of the West Brom defence for the first time.

His form helped Carlos Corberan's side finish fifth in the Championship table, but they missed out on promotion to the Premier League after defeat to Southampton in the play-off semi-finals.

In total, Kipre has made 67 appearances in all competitions for the Baggies, scoring four goals and providing two assists in that time.

For their part, Trabzonspor finished third in the Turkish top-flight this season, meaning they will be competing in the Europa League during the 2024/25 campaign.

Cedric Kipre update is a concern for West Brom

It is hard not to feel as though this interest in Kipre from Trabzonspor will be a big concern for those at The Hawthorns.

The centre back was a standout figure for West Brom last season in their push for the promotion from the Championship.

As a result, with the club looking to go one better in the coming campaign, Kipre would be a vital part of their attempts to return to the Premier League next season if he was to stay.

However, this interest that is emerging from elsewhere, means it looks as though it will be hard for them to retain his services, given he appears to be keen on the move.

Indeed, Trabzonspor can also offer the defender top-flight and European football for next season, which could be hard for West Brom to compete with.

If Kipre is to move on, then he is someone who the Baggies would obviously need to replace, but given if he is to move on, it would be on a free transfer, his exit would not be bringing in a fee that could help source someone to take over his position.

So with all that in mind, this update is something that will surely be worrying for those of a West Brom persuasion, as they aim to seal a new agreement with Kipre.