West Brom ‘signal recruitment change’ after Ajayi and Swift transfer call
Semi Ajayi and John Swift could be on their way out of West Brom next summer, indicating a potential shift in transfer strategy at The Hawthorns.
The 31-year-old defender and 29-year-old midfielder are in the final months of their contracts and may leave for free soon if fresh terms can’t be agreed.
Ajayi’s injuries at the Albion have frustrated fans, and it may be the right time for them to find a replacement for him.
Swift was linked with an exit from The Hawthorns in the winter transfer window, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him leave once the campaign concludes.
Ajayi and Swift part of changing plan at West Brom
Ajayi and Swift’s departure may be part of the changing recruitment structure at the West Midlands outfit, David Prutton says.
The Sky Sports pundit believes the financial aspect of their new contracts could potentially be a factor as the Baggies make a decision on their future.
| Player | Appearances (2024/25) |
| Ajayi | 15 |
| Swift | 37 |
Prutton isn’t sure, though, whether the Albion will be making the right call by letting the Nigerian centre-back and English ace leave next summer.
Speaking to Football League World (25 April), the pundit said: “They’ve been part of decent squads — but especially this season, the time is very much of the now and is of the essence. It’s how these players are playing right now.
“Financially as well, that might come into it. Changing the wage bill, changing the approach regarding who they recruit. I don’t know whether it’s the right or wrong call right now. Time will only tell.”
Bilkul Football to revamp squad at The Hawthorns
Shilen Patel didn’t waste time sacking Tony Mowbray, having appointed him earlier this season.
Bilkul Football hired the former Birmingham City head coach to make progress on Carlos Corberan’s work at the Albion, which he failed to do.
It wasn’t surprising to see the English manager leave after losing to Derby County at The Hawthorns, which was a crushing blow in their hopes of making the play-offs.
West Brom now have some critical decisions to make ahead of next season, the most pivotal being the appointment of a new manager.
The Baggies also need to build a competitive squad if they have any ambition of returning to the Premier League one day.
If Patel is willing to let the likes of Ajayi and Swift leave, then he must be ready to put his hands in his pockets to reinforce the squad in the upcoming transfer window.
While the idea of signing potential future prospects may be tempting, the Albion will arguably need talented players who can push them further up the table.
It’s encouraging to see the owners taking initiative, but there must be a solid plan to ensure the Black Country club don’t deteriorate further in the coming months.