Transfer Focus: Where West Bromwich Albion need to strengthen

Where the team needs to strengthen

Injuries and the African Cup of Nations could leave Clarke’s side short in midfield, so he might look to add depth to that department. In fact West Brom could do with a little more depth all over the pitch, with injuries threatening to derail their season.

Top targets

West Brom have traditionally been quite underwhelming in terms of their January activity, and this year might well be no different. The focus might be on ensuring Romelu Lukaku stays on loan in the midlands rather than return to parent club Chelsea. They could even be looking to double up on Lukaku’s by bringing Romelu’s 18 year old brother Jordan to the Premiership from Anderlecht. Clarke might also look to bring in Manchester City midfielder Abdislam Ibrahim, who has recently returned from a loan spell in Norway. Former Barcelona man Abdul Kader Keita is reportedly looking for a move to England, with West Brom one of a string of clubs interested in the midfielder. Finally Kidderminster’s Jamille Matt has allegedly caught Clarke’s eye with his good performances in the Blue Square Premier.

Likely outgoings 

The transfer of striker Chris Wood to Leicester has already been finalised, with the 21 year old rejecting the chance to stay at loan club Millwall to join the Foxes. Craig Dawson might be targeted by Bolton given the defenders lack of playing time at the Hawthorns. Shane Long and Claudio Yacob have both been linked with top English sides due to their fine form this season, but it would be entirely unexpected if either left in January.

Budget

West Brom are highly unlikely be splashing the cash in January, you would expect around £5 million to be available to Clarke.

Predictions 

You can expect a quiet window from West Brom, as they consolidate their squad with perhaps a couple of low key arrivals and no significant departures.

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