The obvious West Brom bargain Premier League transfer raid that could make club play-off favourites - opinion

West Bromwich Albion have entered a pivotal summer transfer window as they seek to address their frailties and get the club back on track under new head coach Ryan Mason.

The Baggies will say farewell to three experienced, high-earning players departing at the end of their contracts and none of the loanees are expected to join permanently. There could be further departures, too, as Albion look ahead to next season’s contract expiries.

All of those leaving will need replacing, and there are gaps to fill as it is, so at least half a dozen new signings can be expected in the coming months. As West Brom don’t have deep pockets, the business done will need to be intelligent if the club is to return to the play-offs next campaign. Any new additions will also need to conform to Mason’s vision, even with Albion’s recruitment not usually involving the head coach directly.

Targeting free agents and loanees could be a good avenue for West Brom to take as they seek to move back into Championship play-off contention without worsening their improving - but still delicate - financial situation. With that in mind, we’ve selected a Premier League player who could help the Baggies become play-off favourites without costing the club even a penny.

West Brom could complete genius Nottingham Forest free agent swoop

That player Albion should consider, in our opinion, is Nottingham Forest’s Harry Toffolo, who is confirmed to be leaving the City Ground on a free transfer when his contract runs out on June 30. The 29-year-old, predominantly a left-back but also capable of playing at left midfield or even centre-back, had to play third fiddle to Neco Williams and Alex Moreno during the season just gone.

Toffolo signed for Forest in 2022 after two seriously impressive seasons with Huddersfield in the Championship. The 29-year-old was one of the best players in the English second tier in 2021/22, scoring six goals and making seven assists as the Terriers went on a charge to finish third under former Albion boss Carlos Corberan.

But having been defeated in the play-off final at Wembley, Toffolo went on to sign for the team that beat Huddersfield. Forest persuaded the versatile defender with the promise of Premier League football but he’s been merely a squad utility option for his near three years at the club to date.

With his contract up, Toffolo will be available to sign for free. West Brom could swoop in - and they absolutely should - as Toffolo can compete effectively with Callum Styles in the left-back position. Gianluca Frabotta hasn’t been a success in the position and Toffolo has both the experience and quality to help Albion compete for promotion, let alone just the play-offs.

Albion could face fierce competition for Toffolo’s signature as Sunderland and Rangers have reportedly expressed an interest. That gives all the more reason for the Baggies to move quickly, otherwise they may regret it.

Read on: West Brom and Norwich City are interested in signing a League Cup winner.