West Brom have been linked with Cheikh N’Doye since 2015, with there being claims in France at the time that Tony Pulis had tried to stop N’Doye’s move to Angers.
Former footballer Salif Diao has assisted N’Doye during his career and was quoted in September 2015 as saying: “Some followed him for four to five years, but have never taken the plunge. When he left Epinal (previous club to Creteil), I did not understand why all these clubs didn’t come looking for him. However, I felt Creteil really wanted to advance. When I hear that 26 or 27 year olds can no longer grow, it’s bullshit. I’ve seen worse players than him play more than 500 matches in England.
“Crystal Palace and Stoke City, West Bromwich were interested.”
In the following January transfer window, French newspaper L’Equipe reported that West Brom had made a €10m offer for the player. The Baggies arrived too late, because Angers had already sold two players and were determined not to lose another halfway through the season.
The following summer window it was reported that Angers were minded to sell N’Doye because he hadn’t renewed his contract. They wanted €10m, but nobody really pushed for a deal. Whilst West Brom’s €10m may have understandably not been enough during January, for a summer window clubs thought it overpriced.
Now things have changed, N’Doye’s contract with Angers ends in the summer, and it’s a worry for the club given the central midfielder has arguably been their best player this season. West Brom see themselves presented with a chance to sign their target for nothing.
N’Doye turns 31 years of age this month but has been improving in recent seasons so that’s not a big issue, especially on a free deal. West Brom are now able to start talks over a summer transfer and secure the player, should they so wish.
