Toby Collyer is moving closer to a permanent Old Trafford exit after West Brom opened talks over bringing the 22-year-old back to The Hawthorns.
talkSPORT reports that negotiations between Manchester United and West Brom are now taking place, with discussions centred on a permanent transfer rather than another loan.
It represents a significant development for Collyer after United made him available for a permanent move earlier this summer.
The midfielder was involved during Michael Carrick’s pre-season preparations but now appears increasingly likely to leave before the transfer window closes.
Toby Collyer talks point towards permanent Man Utd exit
A return to West Brom would take Collyer back to familiar surroundings.
He made 12 appearances during a loan spell with the Championship club last season before a calf injury disrupted his progress and United recalled him in January.
Collyer subsequently joined Hull City for the second half of the campaign, although another difficult spell with injuries restricted him to five appearances.
West Brom have now returned for the midfielder, but the significant difference is the proposed structure of the deal.
United allowing Collyer to leave permanently would effectively bring an end to a first-team pathway which once appeared capable of developing into something more substantial.
The former Brighton academy midfielder has made 13 senior appearances for United and gained Europa League experience, but competition in Carrick’s midfield has increased significantly this summer.
Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have both arrived, while Kobbie Mainoo remains an important part of United’s long-term plans.
For Collyer, regular Championship football may now offer a clearer route forward than remaining on the fringes at Old Trafford.
From United’s perspective, permanent talks also show the club are prepared to make firm decisions on academy players who are no longer considered likely to establish themselves in the senior squad.
West Brom already know what Collyer can offer and negotiations have now moved beyond speculative interest.
Unless talks break down, his Manchester United career appears closer than ever to reaching its conclusion.
