Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Thu 28 May 2026 17:00, UK

West Bromwich Albion could yet welcome Joe Wildsmith back to The Hawthorns.

The 30-year-old departed on loan for Middlesbrough in January after a largely disappointing spell with the Baggies.

He played a role in the downfall of the Black County outfit while making 20 appearances after his free transfer from Derby County in the summer of 2024.

Things certainly didn’t work out for him in B71, but it only really got worse after a strange move to The Riverside in the winter.

That paved the way for West Brom to announce Wildsmith’s departure at the end of his contract, but that may no longer be the case.

Middlesbrough reveal Joe Wildsmith Hawthorns return

It has been a strange campaign for the Englishman, with his spells with both the Baggies and Boro being far from ideal.

He failed to make a single appearance under Kim Hellberg as he watched the play-off final defeat against Hull City from the bench.

That hasn’t come as a surprise to anyone in the Black Country, as his exploits in Albion colours were hardly anything to write home about.

West Brom announced earlier in May that Wildsmith would depart once his current deal ended in the summer.

That may no longer be the case after Middlesbrough released a statement including their retained list, which noted that the keeper would be returning to his parent club.

Wishing the very best of luck to Matt Targett, Alan Browne and Joe Wildsmith as they return to parent clubs at the end of their loan spells with Boro.

Thanks for all your contributions, lads 👏

— Middlesbrough FC (@Boro) May 28, 2026

Considering Wildsmith is out of contract at West Brom, that is a bizarre way to put it, as he arguably has nowhere to return to.

Could Wildsmith yet sign a new deal with West Brom?

The Baggies have already said goodbye to the shot stopper, but things can change.

Boro have thanked the 30-year-old for his contribution at The Riverside, despite failing to play a single minute of competitive action.

That may have caught the attention of James Morrison and Co. who may be willing to trust in Wildsmith as a potential third-choice option.

His current deal, reportedly worth £10,000 per week, is set to end within weeks, so any new terms would have to be arranged quickly.

We're delighted to announce the signing of Joe Wildsmith on a two-year contract! ✍️

Welcome to the Albion, Joe! 🧤

— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) July 10, 2024

The statement from Middlesbrough may prove to be meaningless.

The keeper may still move on from The Hawthorns as announced, but it just feels as if the retained list was written in a strange way.