Albion youngster Jeremy Sarmiento was West Bromwich Albion’s “primary target” in attack following confirmation of his loan move.

The 21-year-old attacking midfielder’s move to the West Midlands club was confirmed last night.

Sarmiento played in nine Premier League matches for Albion last season but struggled with injury.

His most notable was a substitute appearance against Bournemouth in February where he teed up Kaoru Mitoma with a delightful cross just three minutes from time.

The Argus: Albion celebrate their late winner against BournemouthAlbion celebrate their late winner against Bournemouth (Image: Liz Finlayson)

He also impressed in Albion's 4-1 demolition of Everton in January.

The Baggies said the Ecuadorian international was their “primary target” in attack.

They finished ninth, just three points outside of the play-offs, despite being second bottom of the Championship after 16 matches.

Technical director David Weir said: “Jeremy is at a stage now where he needs to play regularly and this is a really good move for him.

“We’ll be keeping a close eye on his development throughout the campaign and wish him well for the season.”

Sarmiento signed a new contract with Brighton in June which has seen him commit to the club until June 2027.

Sarmiento represented Ecuador in all three of their group fixtures at the 2022 World Cup – including a 2-0 win over hosts Qatar in the opening game of the tournament, and a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands.  

Head of football operations for West Brom, Ian Pearce, added: “We are delighted to have Jeremy with us on loan for the season. We have remained patient in the market and have been rewarded by signing our primary target in this area of the pitch. 

“Carlos and I remain focused on building a strong squad for the season ahead and Jeremy joining us is an important step in that process.”

Sarmiento arrived in London from Madrid as a child, developing in the academy of Charlton to earn various England youth call-ups, before moving to Benfica in 2018.

He was Albion’s young player of the season for the 2021/22 season.

Baggies boss, Carlos Corberan, said: “I am very pleased to have signed a talented player from a Premier League club. He is an exciting player, who has great maturity for someone so young.   

“The fact he has already played in the Premier League and at a World Cup gives me the confidence that he has the personality and desire required to keep developing his skills. 

“He is a versatile attacker who can play on either wing, as well as through the middle as a 10, and his flexibility to play to a high standard in three different positions will be important to us.”