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According to The Express & Star, Rekeem Harper has been offered a new deal by West Brom with discussions being on and off since January.

What's the word?

Harper is one of the best talents to come through Albion's academy in recent years but the club could be in danger of losing him for absolutely nothing over the summer.

The 6 ft midfielder has a contract with the Baggies until the end of June but it doesn't appear as though they're any closer to a breakthrough over a new deal.

That's per The Express & Star who have claimed the 19-year-old has been offered a contract in discussions that have been held with the player's representatives since the beginning of the year.

In recent weeks, Harper has attracted the interest of Tottenham and Norwich according to The Sun on Sunday (3rd May, page 68) and The Sun (10 May, page 57).

Harper needs to stick around

West Brom's energetic youngster has played in 22 matches across all competitions this term, finding himself a bit-part of the squad predominantly under Darren Moore. However, he's featured more regularly under Jimmy Shan.

Despite that, he was left on the bench against Aston Villa last Saturday which was somewhat of a surprise given how regularly he's started in recent months.

Shan claimed that was down to personnel and selection, per quotes in The Express & Star. However, his absence was particularly noticeable, suggesting West Brom need to do all they can to keep him at the club next season.

That, of course, could be out of their hands, particularly if he continues to swat away offers. Considering the Baggies missing a dynamic man in the middle of the park against Villa, they should be doing all they can to get him to agree to terms.

West Brom's midfield has been an area of strength but it is an ageing part of the team, especially with the likes of Jake Livermore and Chris Brunt. As a result, the Baggies need to ensure they're bringing through players like Sam Field and Harper.

The latter has had troubles with attitude towards the back end of the campaign but they must now forget about that and keep him around.