Valencia target West Bromwich Albion coach for vacant role

La Liga side Valencia have officially approached West Bromwich Albion head coach Carlos Corberan. According to sources, talks are ongoing between the two clubs, although a deal has yet to be finalized. Valencia are reportedly willing to pay Corberan’s release clause, believed to be between £3-4 million.

Corberan, 41, has been in charge of West Brom since October 2022, leading the team to a ninth-placed finish in his first season and fifth last term. Despite a reduced playing budget, Corberan has guided Albion to seventh place in the Championship table this season. His impressive performance has attracted attention from other clubs, including Premier League side Southampton, who recently opted for Ivan Juric instead.

Valencia, Corberan’s hometown club, are currently second-bottom of La Liga, four points from safety. The team drew 2-2 with Alaves on Sunday, moving off the bottom of the table on goal difference. Corberan’s potential appointment would come at a critical time, with Valencia facing reigning champions Real Madrid in their next league game on January 3.

The pull of returning to his hometown and being closer to his family may be a significant factor in Corberan’s decision. His parents still live in the region, and he has a Spanish wife and two young children. Corberan is also an ambitious coach, and the opportunity to work at an elite level may be too enticing to resist.

While a deal has yet to be finalized, Valencia’s approach for Corberan is a clear indication of their desire to strengthen their coaching staff. The club’s poor performance this season has led to the sacking of head coach Ruben Baraja, and Corberan is seen as a potential solution to their problems.

If Corberan does decide to leave West Brom, it will be a significant blow to the Championship club. Albion will be keen to appoint a suitable replacement to ensure their promotion push remains on track.