West Brom patience tested yet again on Deadline Day
Boss Carlos Corberan hopes Albion are active in today’s transfer deadline – though exits remain at least as important as any late signings.
The entire summer window has revolved around bringing in funds and lowering Albion’s unsustainable wage bill in the absence of investment via ownership or parachute payments.
Corberan and supporters have had the ultimate test in patience. The boss wants to add to sole arrivals Jeremy Sarmiento and Josh Maja and is desperate for cover and competition at right-back and in attacking midfield.
It is understood there are funds available for at least one new recruit today – free agent Reggie Cannon is an option but Leeds right-back Cody Drameh loan interest reports are wide of the mark – but more could rest on exits from The Hawthorns.
The club are keen to move Grady Diangana on and, despite interest this summer, a fee has yet to be agreed with a buyer.
The lack of more favourable options departing Albion could force the need to listen to any approaches of value to more popular members of the Baggies.
That has been exemplified in recent days with Stoke’s interest in Brandon Thomas-Asante, which has so far been rebuffed by Albion, but it remains to be seen if the Potters will increase their bid to test Albion’s resolve before the deadline.
Corberan understands Albion’s financial situation and while he was insistent last weekend that two players are required to be successful and competitive this season, the club may not be able to make those deals work in the current financial landscape.
Talks are ongoing and targets are lined up but Albion will still look to prioritise exits to continue balancing the books where they can today, with any additions a bonus to Corberan’s plans.
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.