Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 28 May 2026 14:10, UK

West Bromwich Albion are heading into next season with just Joshua Griffiths as a goalkeeper, with Max O’Leary’s decision over a new contract still to be communicated.

The Irishman arrived in the winter window with the Midlands side embroiled in an intense relegation battle.

Unfortunately for Griffiths, his performances had been far from ideal, ending the season with a -7.55 goals prevented stat.

As the Baggies looked to address their issues, a new goalkeeper looked to be one of the more optimal positions to strengthen in.

In West Brom’s winter window, Irishman O’Leary was decided upon, but he was only offered a short-term deal, a contract they may now regret.

How West Brom can gain advantage in Max O’Leary talks

When West Brom published their released and retained list for the 2025-2026 season, the Baggies confirmed that a contract for O’Leary was on the table.

However, so far, there have been no updates as to whether or not the 29-year-old has agreed to the terms put forward for next season.

One thing the Hawthorns outfit could use to their advantage is that the Republic of Ireland manager has begun turning to goalkeepers that play often for their clubs.

In the latest matchday squad to face Qatar, Premier League shot-stopper Mark Travers was excluded in favour of two League of Ireland number ones, Conor Brann and Ed McGinty.

O’Leary proved impressive for the Baggies after arriving in the winter window, and he would surely be trusted to remain as number one for the Championship outfit.

That assurance is one advantage they could have to push talks forward in their favour, as there is no guarantee he would get the same level of game time elsewhere.

He would also be coming back into a more familiar surrounding which will allow him to settle in quickly.

Where else could Max O’Leary move to this summer?

O’Leary will have plenty of suitors after he ended the season with an impressive 68 per cent save rate for West Brom.

Before making the winter move to B71, clubs such as Blackburn Rovers, QPR and Derby County held interest, according to the Sun.

It remains to be seen if any of those sides reignite their pursuit, with Blackburn’s Balasz Toth subject to interest from Everton.

Overall, the Baggies may need to try to move negotiations and talks along quickly before they are left behind by rival offers. Although West Brom’s social media activity may hint O’Leary has made his decision.