In a week of dramatic Championship action, West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City are making headlines with their transfer pursuits, as both clubs look to strengthen their squads amid challenging seasons.
West Brom's Defensive Woes Prompt Goalkeeper Search
West Brom suffered a crushing 5-0 defeat at home to Norwich City on Tuesday, a result that leaves them perilously close to the relegation zone. This loss marks the second consecutive defeat under new head coach Eric Ramsay, who took over mid-season following Ryan Mason's departure.
Ramsay acknowledged the team's struggles in a post-match interview, stating, "I know the gravity of this situation and what it's going to need and the toughness that goes with it, as a head coach and a group of staff around a group of players that are showing some fragility. But I've got to make sure that we support them in the right way, we make sure we are constructive, we find positives where we can find positives, we bring the negatives front and centre and we meet some of that difficulty head on."
Targeting Sunderland's Anthony Patterson
In response to their defensive issues, West Brom are reportedly eyeing a loan move for Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. The Baggies have conceded eight goals in just two matches under Ramsay and have managed only two clean sheets in their last 21 Championship games.
Josh Griffiths has been the primary choice in goal since Alex Palmer's exit last January, but his performances have been inconsistent. Joe Wildsmith has also had spells as deputy, including a seven-match run in December, but has since returned to the bench.
Patterson, 25, played 45 times in the Championship last season, helping Sunderland secure promotion via the play-offs. However, he has not featured in a league match this season after the arrival of Robin Roefs from NEC in the Eredivisie. Ramsay is keen to add proven Championship quality, making Patterson an attractive target for a loan deal until the season's end.
Birmingham City's Interest in Chelsea Prospect
Meanwhile, Birmingham City are among the clubs monitoring the availability of Chelsea's young left-back, Harry McGlinchey. The 18-year-old has represented the Republic of Ireland at Under-19 level and regularly features for Chelsea's youth teams after signing his first professional contract in December 2024.
Despite his potential, McGlinchey is yet to make a first-team appearance for Chelsea and is unlikely to break into the squad while at Stamford Bridge. Reports suggest Chelsea are open to a permanent transfer this month, provided it includes a suitable sell-on clause.
Competition for the Starlet
Birmingham face competition from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers and Championship rivals Sheffield United for McGlinchey's signature. The Blues recently signed Kai Wagner from the MLS but may seek additional depth in defence following Alex Cochrane's injury.
This transfer activity highlights the ongoing efforts of both West Brom and Birmingham City to navigate a competitive Championship season, with key moves potentially shaping their fortunes in the coming months.
