Tim Iroegbunam, West Brom’s academy player of the year, has joined Aston Villa after the two clubs reached an agreement. The 18-year-old had enjoyed a successful rise through the ranks at The Hawthorns while, in May, Iroegbunam was named amongst the substitutes in Sam Allardyce’s final match in charge at Leeds United. Iroegbunam follows a well-trodden path from West Brom’s academy to Villa, with 20-year-old Finn Azaz joining the Birmingham club this week following his release.
Tim Iroegbunam said: “I would like to say thank you to everyone at West Bromwich Albion who’ve helped me in my development as a footballer. You have all given me good times and memories that I will cherish forever. Now my time has come to an end and I am looking forward to the next chapter. I wish the best to all my teammates and the coaches I’ve been with. It’s been an amazing 10 years.”
Iroegbunam will link up with ex-Baggie Louie Barry at Villa after the pair were scouted together by Albion during their early days playing for Sutton United at under-8s. Elsewhere at West Brom, young striker Callum Morton has joined Fleetwood Town on a season’s loan while, on Saturday, Valérien Ismaël will take his squad to Birmingham City for their final pre-season friendly before the Championship begins next week at Bournemouth.
