‘West Brom to pull off unexpected masterstroke’ amid Lawrence transfer news
Ryan Mason has a big job on his hands to build a West Brom squad capable of competing for promotion.
The Baggies fell short of the playoffs after a late collapse in their 2024-25 campaign. They have since released the likes of Semi Ajayi, Grady Diangana and John Swift.
Mason will be in charge of finding replacements for these first-team stars, although fans aren’t too excited about one of the players linked with a move to The Hawthorns in Tom Lawrence.
Tom Lawrence will add a much-needed asset to West Brom squad
West Brom are reportedly one of several clubs interested in signing Wales international Lawrence.
The 31-year-old winger is available on a free transfer after his contract at Rangers expired.
Some Baggies fans have suggested that Lawrence isn’t good enough for their team, but he does bring an asset that is somewhat lacking in Mason’s squad. That asset is experience.
Ajayi, Diangana and Swift have each amassed well over 100 first-team appearances in the second tier. Most of the players named as potential replacements are up-and-coming youngsters or unproven overseas players.
Lawrence is a former Derby captain. He has 23 international caps. He can bring a lot to the dressing room, even if he doesn’t start every week.
Mason needs to blend youth and experience
It’s all well and good being linked with 17-year-old Mikey Moore or promising foreign stars like Gora Diouf.
History reveals that this alone won’t earn you Championship promotion.
You need a dash of experience in your squad as well. Players who understand what’s required to succeed in this league. Wise heads who can keep others calm during controversial moments of a game or purple patches of form.
| Appearances | Minutes Played | Goals | Assists |
| 23 | 1027 | 6 | 2 |
West Brom have lost a few of their most experienced players this summer, so signing Lawrence on a free transfer seems like a no-brainer.
Yes, he has been somewhat injury-prone and his output hasn’t been the best at Rangers, but he still has a lot of value to add to the squad.
That is why this unpopular transfer, should West Brom pursue it, could yet prove to be a masterstroke in the long term.