How West Brom’s exciting £12m line-up could look in 2026 - if West Ham and ex-Everton star sign
West Brom could be in the market for further reinforcements in January
West Brom have had a solid start to life under their new manager Ryan Mason but they enter the international break on a down note after a dismal 3-0 defeat to Millwall. It’s a result which takes West Brom out of the top six on goal difference and one that gives the group another harsh reminder of just how tough a division this is to win promotion from.
The Baggies are aiming to reach the top-flight for the first time since 2021 but perhaps still need an extra touch of quality to optimise their chances of making it back into the big time. With that in mind, based on recent reports, we take a look at West Brom’s potential starting lineup for the second half of the season and the players they could entice to the Hawthorns.
West Brom could make fresh move for West Ham gem
West Brom have been linked with a move for West Ham youngster George Earthy. The England Under-21 international enjoyed a really productive loan spell at Bristol City last season which saw him help the Robins to a sixth place finish. He was subsequently kept on at West Ham by former manager Graham Potter despite interest from a number of Championship sides, but is yet to play a single minute of first team football this term.
West Brom pushed to sign the player on loan on transfer deadline day but a deal for the 20-year-old ultimately never materialized. GiveMeSport claim, however, that hope is not lost and that a fresh loan bid could be submitted in January.
West Brom plot shock move for ex-Everton midfielder
Two-time Premier League Young Player of the Year Dele Alli has emerged as a shock summer target for West Brom, according to recent reports.
The 28-year-old, best known for his time at Tottenham, who also played at MK Dons, Everton, Besiktas and most recently Como, is currently without a club after his contract in Italy was terminated early by mutual consent. Alli played with Ryan Mason at Tottenham and is someone that the former England international knows well, both as a player and a coach.
The former Champions League finalist was once regarded as one of the hottest talents in English football but has had a series of injuries and off-the-field issues that have derailed his career. He told Gary Neville in July 2023: “I think mentally I’m probably in the best place I’ve ever been, and I feel good. Obviously injured at the minute, but I’ve got that passion back for football - I’m doing really well.”
If they can get Alli anywhere near his best, he’d be a shrewd signing at Championship level with the potential to make a massive impact in terms of goal-scoring. However, it’s a tall order given his recent career trajectory and would present a massive risk as well.
West Brom’s potential new-look line-up in 2026: Griffiths, Campbell, Philipps, Mepham, Styles, Earthy, Mowatt, Price, Alli, Johnston, Maja.