Ryan Mason's new transfer admission means nothing until West Brom address worrying concern

Ryan Mason is well aware of the need for West Brom to recruit in January.

Despite the Championship having suffered a general drop in quality this season, West Brom have next to no chance of promotion, at least automatically.

The play-offs remain a possibility, but that will only be achievable if the Baggies can address the frailties within their squad come January.

Mason has spoken out about their plans for the transfer window, but unless things change at The Hawthorns, his comments hold no value.

West Brom boss reveals dialogue with Andrew Nestor

West Brom face Hull City this weekend, before home encounters against Bristol City and QPR round off 2025.

Only then will the Baggies turn their full focus to the transfer window, though their ability to deal within it is going to be hindered massively.

As quoted by the Express and Star, Mason said: "We're constantly in dialogue, but there are a couple of things. So, one is, can you do things?"

"Then my job, my responsibility, is to try and win games of football. Four games is a long time in football. A lot can change, a lot can, momentum can feel different."

However, the reality is that if things don't improve on the pitch for West Brom, their ability to bring quality to The Hawthorns is going to be massively restricted.

Albion have won consecutive games under Mason on just one occasion this season, showcasing their lack of consistency.

With a manager in limbo and promotion looking like more of a fantasy as opposed to a target, it's going to be really hard to attract players, especially midway through a campaign.

• Read more: Carlos Corberan once tried and failed to sign two Hull City stars when he was at West Brom

Who have West Brom been linked with?

Injuries to Toby Collyer and Alex Mowatt have left Mason with very few options in the middle of the pitch, making it sem fairly obvious that a new midfielder is going to be a priority.

Rangers' Bailey Rice has been linked with a move to The Hawthorns, though the Baggies face competition from several other English clubs, some of whom are in the Premier League.

West Brom have also been linked with Glen Kamara, formerly of Leeds United.

Away from the midfield, Albion will also target some attacking reinforcements, with Aune Heggebo certainly in need of some help.

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