West Bromwich Albion supporters are eagerly anticipating the January transfer window, hoping it proves far more fruitful than a disappointing summer which saw 14 players depart the Hawthorns for free, with most not adequately replaced.
Areas in Need of Reinforcement
While striker Aune Heggebo has been a successful acquisition and leads the club's scoring charts, The Baggies have struggled for goals compared to their recent peers. The defence, particularly the full-back positions, is seen as requiring an upgrade. Furthermore, strengthening the central and attacking midfield areas is considered a priority. In truth, with the team languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship, few areas of the starting eleven could not be improved.
The Christmas Wishlist for the Hawthorns
These are the players reportedly on West Brom's radar as they aim to fuel a push for a mid-table finish or better.
George Earthy is a primary target. The midfielder, valued at around £5 million in the summer, was crucial for Bristol City's playoff push last season. He was close to a loan move to Wrexham but cancelled it to fight for a place at West Ham United. Having only featured in the EFL Trophy this term, he may be open to a January switch, potentially on loan.
A move for Dele Alli would be a headline-grabber. Once compared to Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard and ranked the world's most expensive midfielder in 2018, his career has stalled amid personal challenges and difficult spells at Everton, Besiktas, and Como. His connection with former coach Ryan Mason has sparked links to West Brom, where a return to form could transform their fortunes.
Portsmouth winger Josh Murphy is a more ambitious target, having recently signed a new deal. However, Pompey's dire relegation battle could make him available in the summer depending on how their season concludes.
Rangers' Bailey Rice, the youngest post-war player to feature in a league game for the Glasgow club, is also of interest. The full-back is set to be a free agent next summer, with clubs outside Scotland able to sign a pre-contract from January 2026. Aston Villa and Cardiff City are also keen, but West Brom could offer a strong level of football with a clear path to first-team action.
A Critical Window Ahead
The January transfer window represents a critical opportunity for West Brom to address squad deficiencies that were glaringly exposed last summer. Securing even one or two of these targets could provide the quality and depth needed to climb the Championship table and build a platform for the future.
