West Brom set to sign USA international defender in permanent deal | OneFootball

West Brom are set to sign CF Montreal centre-back George Campbell.

West Brom are closing in on the signing of defender George Campbell from CF Montreal as Ryan Mason continues to add to his squad.

The former Spurs coach was named as Tony Mowbray’s successor this summer, and he has wasted little time in reshaping the squad, with Nat Phillips and Aune Heggebo already through the door.

Phillips’ arrival has reinforced the defence, but Mason clearly feels another addition is required, with Albion expected to finalise a deal for Campbell.

West Brom set to sign George Campbell from CF Montreal

That’s after reporter Ben Jacobs revealed that Albion are in discussions to sign the 24-year-old, who has won one cap for the United States.

The deal is seemingly at a very advanced stage, as the update explains how Montreal left the player out of their squad for the 1-1 draw at Orlando City, with the fixture played in the early hours of this morning.

It’s unclear how much the Baggies will be paying for the ex-Atlanta United man, who is under contract with Montreal until the end of the 2025 season, whilst they have the option to extend his deal by another year.

George Campbell provides Ryan Mason with another good defensive option

Albion have had a productive start to the transfer window, with Mason clearly identifying the key positions that needed to be improved.

Most would have agreed that a striker was required, with Heggebo filling that role. With the defence, the need wasn’t quite as obvious, as Albion did have a decent record, particularly under Carlos Corberan.

But, Semi Ajayi has moved on, whilst Kyle Bartley is 34, so it was an area of the pitch that had to be addressed even with Phillips joining.

With the classy Torbjorn Heggem at the club as well, who can also play left-back, Mason will feel he has good options at the back if Campbell’s transfer is completed.

To have that done this early in pre-season is a real positive for the boss, and he can now work on the defensive unit on a daily basis to get his message across about how he wants them to play.

For Campbell, this is a chance for him to leave the MLS club and to test himself in England, and it’s an opportunity he will no doubt be desperate to take.

As outlined above, Campbell will have a battle to get in the XI, but it’s down to him to show Mason he deserves a place through his performances in training ahead of West Brom's Championship opener against Blackburn on August 9.