West Bromwich Albion secured a significant £16.5m transfer deal for Salomon Rondon, a move that has proved to be highly profitable as the player’s current market value is now significantly lower.
In contrast, Josh Maja has started the new season on fire after overcoming an injury-plagued first year at the club, netting seven goals in as many matches. Maja’s resurgence has reignited hope that, should West Brom gain promotion, he could replicate his form in the Premier League.
Rondon, originally a Tony Pulis signing, quickly endeared himself to the West Brom faithful. The 6’1″ striker, known for his physical style, scored ten goals in all competitions during his debut season, proving to be a reliable presence in the attack over his three-year stint.
Though his performances dipped towards the end of his time at West Brom, he remained a fan favorite, even during a difficult 2017/18 season when the club finished last in the Premier League.
Despite relegation, West Brom managed to sell Rondon to Chinese side Dalian Yifang for £16.5m in 2019 after a successful loan spell with Newcastle United. At the time, pundits, including Jim White, praised Rondon’s performances. However, since then, Rondon’s market value has plummeted to just £1.9m, as he has bounced between clubs across different countries, including stints in Argentina, Mexico, and Russia. His value decreased even further when he left Dalian on a free transfer to join Everton in 2021.
Rondon’s career post-West Brom has been inconsistent. He scored 14 goals in 28 games for Dalian, but his time at Everton was underwhelming, managing just three goals in 31 appearances.
However, he has recently found form with Mexican side Pachuca, scoring 21 goals in 36 matches. While now in the twilight of his career, Rondon continues to make an impact, but West Brom’s timing in selling him remains impeccable.
As West Brom’s current stars, like Maja, aim to make a mark under manager Carlos Corberan, Rondon’s legacy as a player who contributed significantly before being sold at the right time lives on.