Credit: Imago

West Brom could have last laugh on EFL as loophole allows Shilen Patel to spend big

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14 May 2026, 6:30 am

West Bromwich Albion may just be able to expose a loophole in the EFL regulations on the back of their recent points deduction.

The Baggies were docked two points last month following a hearing by an independent panel into a breach of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

West Brom learned on Wednesday they had broken the rules by around £1.97million, which is just below the £2m threshold that would have brought a four-point deduction.

Albion have confirmed they will not appeal the decision, having avoided relegation despite that punishment.

And it may well be that West Brom can now play the system, so to speak, and use the punishment to their advantage.

West Brom free from further punishment

West Brom's decision to not appeal their EFL punishment went down well with supporters, even if the statement was not factually correct.

Albion stated the deduction did not impact the Black Country club's final standing, but that is clearly not correct as they would have finished two places higher in 19th.

West Brom 2025-26	Position	Points	GD
With points deduction	21	51	-10
Without points deduction	19	53	-10

But staying up was ultimately all that mattered, and the punishment is now a thing of the past for West Brom.

In fact, it could be a good thing in the short-term as West Brom cannot be punished again while this sanction is in cycle.

West Brom statement on points deduction appeal

That could mean, on the face of it, Shilen Patel is able to spend what he wants this summer and not face the financial repercussions.

It is a loophole that is there to be exposed. If West Brom do so, they will very much have the last laugh on the EFL.

Who have West Brom been linked with ahead of summer window?

The window may not be open just yet - indeed, the 2025-26 season is technically still ongoing as we await the playoff final - but already West Brom are being linked with players.

Rangers defender Leon King was one such player, with the Baggies potentially looking to strengthen at the back.

Outgoing links have been more prominent so far, however, with George Campbell supposedly wanted by Scottish heavyweights Celtic.

The priority before any signings are made regards the six players out of contract next month.

Albion need to confirm by Saturday whether new contracts have been offered or whether the players have been released.

Only then can James Morrison begin to properly start to prepare for a new campaign in which he is hopefully financially backed by Patel.

Shilen Patel