West Brom to ‘fail UK work permit application’ for new Ryan Mason signing
West Brom are already keen to kickstart their summer business after appointing Ryan Mason as head coach.
The Englishman was finally confirmed as the new Baggies manager on Monday (2 June) after weeks of back and forth with Tottenham.
With the 33-year-old now in the B71 dugout, attention is turning to the window and potential signings at The Hawthorns.
As positive as this could prove to be for Shilen Patel and Co., it does look as if Albion are going to fail in their initial attempts to complete an early deal.
Mason to fail in West Brom signing attempt
There is no doubt that additions are going to be needed ahead of the new Championship campaign, after such a poor end to the last.
This will especially be the case after the departure of Grady Diangana, John Swift and Semi Ajayi at the end of their respective contracts.
It is the latter who appears to be in line to be replaced first by the former Spurs coach, especially with Mason Holgate also departing.
This has seen the Baggies showcase an interest in Sion defender Gora Diouf, who is set to leave the Swiss outfit this summer, according to the African outlet Blick (3 June).
The Senegalese defender is out of contract at the end of the month and has declined an offer to remain at his current side for the foreseeable.
This has seen Swiss champions Basel show a keen interest, while Championship outfits Sheffield United and Swansea City look set to challenge West Brom for the free transfer signing.
With that being said, any move from England is likely to fail due to the strict UK work permit requirements centring around Brexit’s regulated points system, although this hasn’t ended any interest in the centre-back to this point.
West Brom in running for Diouf signing
With Mason in charge, it does appear to represent a push towards a more data-driven approach, as opposed to just signing more well-known players.
This certainly worked last summer with the addition of Torbjorn Heggem, who was easily one of Albion’s best players throughout the season.
| Stat (Championship 24/25) | Torbjorn Heggem |
| Appearances | 45 |
| Minutes played | 4014 |
| Goal involvements | 3 |
As a result, it would be excellent to see that replicated with Diouf, who has clearly caught the eye with some top performances in the Swiss Super League.
Given that the 21-year-old has no caps for Senegal, a deal could prove to be tricky, but may be worthwhile if the Baggies can find a solution this summer.