As the January transfer window approaches, clubs in the English Football League (EFL) are preparing for significant changes. West Bromwich Albion is among those aiming to reshape their squad not only to enhance performance but also to reduce their wage bill by approximately £55,000 per week. With the Baggies currently striving for a place in the top six of the Championship, the pressure is mounting on manager Ryan Mason, who is navigating his first managerial role.
The first half of the season has brought challenges for Mason, who initially saw promise in his squad. However, a lack of creativity and inconsistency in performance has hampered their campaign. As they prepare for a crucial second half of the season, the club recognizes the need to make strategic personnel changes to boost their chances of playoff success.
Potential Departures: Daryl Dike and Charlie Taylor
To facilitate new signings, the club is likely to consider offloading certain players. Two individuals on the fringes of the squad, Daryl Dike and Charlie Taylor, have emerged as candidates for departure.
Dike, the American striker, has struggled with injuries since joining West Brom from Orlando City for a fee reported to be around £7 million in January 2022. Despite showing promise during his loan spell at Barnsley in the 2020/21 season, his time at The Hawthorns has been marred by fitness issues. Dike has made limited appearances this season, and his current earnings of £25,000 per week are weighing heavily on the club’s finances. As he approaches the final year of his contract in summer 2026, West Brom faces challenges in recouping their investment. Nevertheless, a successful transfer could not only relieve the wage burden but also give Dike an opportunity to regain form, potentially bolstering his chances for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Meanwhile, Taylor’s situation is equally complicated. The 32-year-old joined West Brom on loan from Southampton on transfer deadline day. This move raised eyebrows, given the influx of new central defenders at Southampton. Taylor’s experience, while valuable, has not translated into significant contributions on the field. His reported wage of £30,000 per week adds further strain to West Brom’s financial landscape. With limited appearances this season, a termination of his loan could benefit both parties, allowing Southampton to utilize Taylor in their defensive setup while freeing West Brom from his wages.
As the January transfer window draws closer, West Bromwich Albion is poised for a pivotal moment. The decisions made in the coming weeks could shape the trajectory of their season, as they look to balance squad improvements with financial sustainability. By offloading Dike and Taylor, the club hopes to create space for new talent and reinforce their push for promotion.
