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West Bromwich Albion find themselves in a very similar situation, and it may well have come at the worst possible time as they currently occupy the top spot in the Championship going into a hectic festive period, which could well decide their true potential this season.

Just like Izzy Brown, just like Louie Barry and very nearly just like Rekeem Harper, the Baggies have faced a long battle to keep hold of their promising young talents.

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So why would this season be any different?

Nathan Ferguson is the next player mooted for an exit, one that in any situation is entirely out of their hands.

The 19-year-old is yet to accept the five-year contract offered to him a couple of months ago, and the Express & Star have since revealed that if there is no change come January, then he is likely to be sold.

His contract expires at the end of the season, meaning he is able to effectively leave the club for free in the summer.

Premier League duo Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace have shown interest in the versatile defender as too have European giants Juventus and Atletico Madrid.

Earlier in the season, Albion were reportedly keen on young Coventry City left-back Sam McCallum, which has only been strengthened since the appointment of ex-Sky Blues academy boss Richard Stevens.

Speaking in an interview more recently, the 19-year-old said: "I have been aware of it but the gaffer has been keeping my feet on the ground and keeping my head at Coventry. He just wants to keep my head down and progress at Coventry. It's flattering and shows I must be doing something right. It’s always nice to hear but I just want to do well for Coventry."

McCallum would offer more of a physical presence to the team as he averages 3.2 aerial duels won and 2.3 clearances per game, which is more than Ferguson.

He also provides more crosses per match at 0.9 compared to the Albion starlet's 0.2, which suggests he could be even more of a threat going forward.

There's plenty to like about the Coventry man as he's a more natural left-back, and at the same age, he could be absolutely ideal in ensuring that any departure in January does little to impact their promotion hopes.

They'll just have to find a way to cough up a "hell of a lot of money."