Baggies begin clearout

22 May 2013 14:15
Clarke begins reshaping squad

Jerome Thomas, Gonzalo Jara-Reyes and Marc-Antonie Fortune have all been released after their contracts expired at the club.

Out of contract Steven Reid and Zoltan Gera remain in discussions with the club about extending their stays at The Hawthorns after they failed to activate automatic extensions.  

Goran Popov, Romelu Lukaku and Yassine El Ghanassy have also returned to their parent clubs after loan spells with the Baggies. Albion had agreed a deal for Popov but have returned to the negotiating table for the defender.

Albion are considered offering Fortune a new 12-month deal, although it’s believed the forward is holding out for a two-year contract.

“Sunday’s incredible game against Manchester United brought a fitting end to a memorable season and I want thank all of the players for their contribution this season,” said Richard Garlick, Sporting and Technical Director.

“Both Jerome and Gonzalo have played important roles in helping the club reach and stay in the Premier League since joining us four years ago.

“They have found first-team opportunities harder to come by this season and had spells out on loan. They both leave with our best wishes, as does Yassine.

“Steven’s an important figure both on and off the field and we are in negotiations with him about a new deal.

“Zoltan’s situation is a little different in that he is rehabbing from a serious injury. We plan to hold talks with him later this summer and he will continue to have our full support in his efforts to regain full fitness.

“We have not offered Marc-Antoine a new deal at this stage but he remains under consideration as we weigh up all options for next season.

“Romelu deserves all the credit he’s been getting for his fantastic contribution. He will report back to Chelsea for pre-season, as planned, and it will be down to them whether Romelu is made available for loan again, and to whom, next season.

“Goran’s loan has also come to an end and we plan to hold talks with Dynamo Kiev in the coming weeks to decide his future.”

Would you offer new deals to Fortune, Gera and Reid? Have your say here at Baggies Banter. 

Source: WBA MAD

Source: FOOTYMAD