West Brom Takeover Tipped For ‘Huge Boost’ As Transfer Verdict Issued

West Brom takeover tipped for ‘huge boost’ as transfer verdict issued
West Brom would get a “huge boost” if a takeover can be completed in time for the January transfer window, according to Carlton Palmer.

The pundit told Football League World on 28 October that the ability to strengthen in the New Year would put the club in a strong position to secure a play-off place behind Leicester and Leeds, who he expects to go up automatically.

American and Middle Eastern parties have held talks over ending Guochuan Lai’s time as majority shareholder [Telegraph, 19 September], and managing director Mark Miles said earlier this month the process is set for completion before the end of the season.

Palmer said: “West Bromwich Albion have had a solid start to the new season, currently sat in sixth place, only two points off Leeds United in third place.

 

“If the takeover of the club could be completed in time for the January transfer market, this would give the club a huge boost in their quest for promotion.

 

“I still think Leeds and Leicester will get promoted automatically, but being able to add to the squad in January could help them secure a place in the play-offs, and we all know how much of a lottery the play-offs can be, so they would have as good a chance as anyone who secures a play-off spot.”

Opportunity

 

Considering how much Carlos Corberan has got out of a squad that has been rapidly shedding players this year the assumption is that he could do even more if he was able to bring in some targets.

The timeframe might be ambitious though to get a takeover through in the next two months, assuming the prospective new owners are even ready to spend on the playing squad.

 

Presumably answers to the club’s financial concerns are a prerequisite of taking charge of the Baggies, but how much of a transfer budget there might be is impossible to say without knowing who is even looking to buy the club.

If Lai is replaced while the current management team keeps West Brom competitive then it would indeed come as a major boost to the fanbase.

 

As the links to Leeds United on two occasions earlier this year showed, the risk may be that Corberan impresses too much while working on a shoestring budget and is tempted away.

But he has already shown his loyalty to Albion though so he may be watching for takeover developments with as much anticipation as the fans with a view to finally operating with more of a level playing field to rival clubs.

 

In other West Brom news, the manager has revealed another “huge boost” within his squad this week.