Are West Brom and Saido Berahino really wise to say goodbye?

However, if the England Under-21 attacker, who has netted 10 times in 12 appearances for the Young Lions, has enough quality to make the grade, his chance will come again.

Despite his impressive goal haul of nine goals in 23 Premier League appearances, Berahino has shown all the hallmarks of being a starlet still under development.

Undeniable pace and poaching instincts are just two of Berahino’s assets, but the Baggies’ academy product has shown a tendency to drift in and out of games when his side is struggling, as well as causing concern with off-field issues.

As for West Brom, they have invested much time and energy into their fledgling frontman, and it would be a shame if the club that helped a young Berahino rebuild his life in England missed out on his best years.

The West Midlands side could have a solid and stable future under new boss Pulis, but need to build a base around, rather than sell, their top stars.

With uncertainty surrounding Berahino’s future, as well as that of summer signing flop Brown Ideye, and the failure to land Cole during deadline day of the winter window, Albion could lack edge in attack.

Relegation remains a real possibility and, while a future fee for Berahino may secure them new recruits in the summer, splashing out is no guarantee of quality or goals. The Baggies’ transfer policy has certainly been hit or miss recently, with record-signing Ideye a prime example.

West Brom are now reportedly planning to fine Berahino for his off-the-cuff comments, but should instead attempt to convince their best player to stay put, instead of preparing to cash-in. Pulis needs his main man to be focused as Albion prepare for crunch clashes with Burnley and Swansea City.

It is worth noting that Berahino also stated in his recent interview: “I’m flattered to be linked to all these sort of teams, but I stay focused. I still have a long way to go. I’m learning a lot from all sorts of different players.”

If West Brom, outsiders at 16/1 to win the FA Cup, can keep Berahino firing on all cylinders, he could save their season, which is surely worth smoothing out a few ruffled feathers for.

As Manchester United flop Wilfried Zaha and many of Liverpool’s summer signings can attest, a move to a Premier League big-gun is no quick fix for success, so Berahino should also be careful not to burn his bridges.