West Brom are considering a loan move for Aston Villa midfielder George Hemmings as James Morrison looks to strengthen his Championship squad.
Villa reportedly have no intention of selling the 19-year-old permanently, but could approve a temporary exit once Unai Emery has added further midfield depth.
The Baggies are monitoring Hemmings after using their relationship with Villa to complete several loan deals in recent seasons.
The72, citing Full Throstle, reports that West Brom are assessing whether they can bring the England youth international to The Hawthorns. Hemmings is held in high regard at Villa, including by Emery, and any departure would only be temporary.
The midfielder joined Villa from Nottingham Forest in January 2024. He has since progressed through the Under-18s and Under-21s before gaining senior first-team experience.
George Hemmings loan could aid senior development
Hemmings made his first Villa start against RB Salzburg in January and has remained involved with Emery’s senior group during pre-season.
He scored during the 5-0 victory over Walsall and also featured against Porto. Those appearances have allowed Emery to assess whether Hemmings can earn meaningful minutes at Villa or would benefit more from playing regularly elsewhere.
ReadAstonVilla previously reported that Villa would consider loans for Hemmings and Bradley Burrowes, while refusing to lose control of either prospect.
West Brom could offer Hemmings the physical and tactical test of Championship football. He can play as a defensive midfielder or slightly further forward, with his composure in possession regarded as one of his main strengths.
However, Villa may delay a final decision until their own midfield business progresses. Emery needs sufficient cover for a campaign involving Premier League and Champions League football.
A George Hemmings loan could provide the teenager with valuable senior experience without ending his pathway at Villa Park. West Brom are now waiting to discover whether Villa will make him available.
