Exclusive: Sky Sports pundit warns Ryan Mason and West Brom about £1m transfer "gamble" | OneFootball

West Brom have been warned over their interest in the MLS defender

West Bromwich Albion are closing in on the signing of CF Montreal centre-back George Campbell.

Ben Jacobs revealed that the Baggies are in discussions to sign the 24-year-old, who made his USMNT debut in January.

The deal is in its final stages after Campbell was left out of Montreal’s squad for their 1-1 draw at Orlando City earlier this week.

Albion are expected to fork out a £1 million fee for the centre-half’s services, making him the club’s second defensive addition this summer following Nat Phillips’ arrival from Liverpool.

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Sky Sports pundit and former EFL striker Don Goodman believes that recruiting from the MLS naturally brings risk, but that the signing could yet be a successful one.

Don Goodman delivers George Campbell verdict amid West Brom arrival

“George Campbell has had regular MLS game time over the last four seasons and built some strong experience up during that time,” explained Goodman.

“Of course it's a gamble. I think the last player to come directly from the MLS to the Championship was Aidan Morris and he's done really, really well at Middlesbrough.

“So, it can be done. But every transfer, every managerial appointment is a gamble, and this one therefore would be no different.

“But you'd like to think he will be able to settle in England, receive some excellent support and specific coaching, which will allow him to develop and improve over time.”

Ryan Mason continues to bolster defence with George Campbell addition

As Ryan Mason prepares to embark on his maiden season as a first-team manager, he has already made some solid signings during the early stages of the transfer window.

Norwegian striker Aune Heggebo has given West Brom another option up front, whilst Phillips and now Campbell will provide a solid base for the Baggies’ backline.

With Semi Ajayi leaving the Hawthorns, Albion had to make the necessary improvements to their defence, unlikely to rely on the aging Kyle Bartley over 46 matches next term.

There are still likely to be reservations over whether Campbell’s performances from the MLS can translate to the English game, but to perform on the international stage for the USMNT is no small feat and highlights his obvious ability.

As Goodman alluded to, Mason should be able to provide some unique coaching for the 24-year-old in an attempt to help Campbell acclimatise to the English game and the challenges it brings.

If the centre-back can repeat his heroics alongside Phillips at the Hawthorns next term, West Brom could have one of the division’s strongest backlines.