West Brom ‘ready to strike new overseas signing’ as exit confirmed
West Brom will be determined to end the summer transfer window with a bang.
The Baggies have had a relatively quiet summer with George Campbell and Nat Phillips both arriving earlier this window.
Ryan Mason’s side picked up the pace by signing Aune Heggebo, who could make his debut against Blackburn Rovers when the Championship returns on Saturday (9 August).
West Brom will be hoping for a real chance at promotion under Mason, who is expected to bring an element of freshness to the club. But before the Baggies can fully focus on the season ahead, they have a few loose ends in the market to tie up.
Gianluca Frabotta’s exit opens up an overseas spot at Albion
Albion confirmed on Friday (8 August) that Gianluca Frabotta and the club have parted ways by mutual agreement.
This was a long time coming for Frabotta, whose imminent exit has been a topic at West Brom throughout the summer. But other than a few tears that will be shed because of the news, Albion may be better off from his departure in more ways than one.
During his time at Albion, Frabotta took up an ESC (Elite Significant Contribution) spot in the squad. This new pathway was introduced by the FA to allow English football to sign a limited number of non-UK players who may not qualify for a GBE (Governing Body Endorsement).
- Premier League and Championship clubs receive a maximum of four ESC slots each
- EFL Leagues One and Two receive a maximum of two ESC slots each
- Players can convert from ESC to GBE after one transfer window
But now that the defender is leaving the club, he frees up an ESC spot for another player. This means that West Brom have the opportunity to add another overseas player to their ranks.
With the Championship starting up once again, the Baggies could be tempted to explore the European market and make a last-minute signing to strengthen their squad even further.
West Brom could use a couple more reinforcements
While the Championship will be Mason’s big test, his pre-season form has provided some insight into the areas that need a little tweaking.
Other than a strong victory against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday (2 August), the Baggies have failed to win any of their pre-season fixtures. It is early days, but this could be cause for concern where the new season is concerned.
In an ideal world, West Brom would take to the summer window to scout some last-minute reinforcements. But with time running out and options warring thin, the Baggies may need to make use of what they have for now.
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