West Bromwich Albion have until the close of the January transfer window to finalise their squad reinforcements, with new manager Eric Ramsay looking to put his stamp on the team. Ramsay, the former Manchester United coach who left his role at MLS side Minnesota United to take the helm at The Hawthorns, has overseen a challenging start, securing just one point from his first three matches in charge. That solitary point came from a 1-1 draw away at Derby County's Pride Park.
Speculative Starting Lineup Based on Transfer Links
If the various transfer rumours circulating prove accurate, West Brom could field a significantly altered starting eleven. Here is a detailed breakdown of how that potential lineup might look, position by position.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Goalkeeper: Sebastian Jurado
Reports from Mexico, via Fox Sports, suggest West Brom are eyeing a move for FC Juarez goalkeeper Sebastian Jurado this winter. Queens Park Rangers are also said to be interested in the shot-stopper. Should he arrive at The Hawthorns, Jurado would compete for the number one jersey with the likes of Max O'Leary, Joe Wildsmith, and Josh Griffiths.
Centre-backs: Luke O’Nien and Nat Phillips
The Baggies are reportedly keen on Sunderland's versatile defender Luke O’Nien, according to the Chronicle, with Birmingham City and Coventry City also credited with interest. O’Nien, who remains under contract at the Stadium of Light until June 2027, played a key role in Sunderland's promotion from the Championship last season under Regis Le Bris. If signed, he could form a new central defensive partnership with Nat Phillips.
Full-backs: Joseph Rosales and George Campbell
At right-back, George Campbell would be expected to vie with Alfie Gilchrist for playing time. On the opposite flank, journalist Gustavo Roca has reported West Brom's interest in Austin FC left-back Joseph Rosales. The 25-year-old Honduran international has a previous working relationship with manager Eric Ramsay from their time together at Minnesota United.
Midfield and Attack
Midfielders: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Nectarios Triantis
In the engine room, West Brom are said to be admirers of former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, now at Lazio, as per reports from La Repubblica via Lazio News 24. His acquisition would provide increased competition and depth in central midfield. Furthermore, Mirror Sport has suggested the club is also considering a move for former Sunderland player Nectarios Triantis, who is currently at Minnesota United.
Wingers: Mikey Johnston and Karlan Grant
Out wide, the pace and direct running of Mikey Johnston and Karlan Grant would be crucial assets for Ramsay's side, offering a potent threat on the flanks.
Attacking Midfielder: Isaac Price
Occupying the number ten role could be Isaac Price, a player with the technical quality to unlock stubborn defences. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international, who has earned 26 caps for his country, joined his current club from Standard Liege, having previously been on the books at Everton. He is viewed as a player with significant potential for future development.
Striker: Aune Heggebo
Leading the line would be Aune Heggebo, a striker signed last summer to bolster the club's attacking options. The Norwegian forward impressed in his homeland with SK Brann before making the switch to England. He has adapted well to the Championship, netting nine goals in 27 appearances so far, demonstrating the firepower he was brought in to provide.
This speculative lineup illustrates the scale of the potential overhaul Eric Ramsay could oversee if the club's reported transfer ambitions come to fruition before the window slams shut. The new signings would aim to provide the quality and depth needed to improve results and climb the Championship table.
