West Brom contract talks Bilkul must make a priority ahead of 2027, including fan favourite

West Bromwich Albion have started the 2026-2027 season strong but it is never too early to think about the future.

James Morrison has the Baggies fighting at the top of the table in the early weeks of the season, and he will no doubt want to keep them there.

Multiple new names have arrived during the summer, providing the former Scottish international with a well-stocked squad.

However, decisions from the top, including from Morrison, will have to be made over the coming months with next summer already in mind.

The Hawthorns side are in a good position contract-wise, with just a few players' deals expiring in 2027 as things stand.

But those 2028 expiries are just as important for West Brom to think about.

The four key West Brom players with 2028 contract expiries

Harry Whitwell will be West Brom's number one priority for a new contract, with his deal ending at the conclusion of the current season.

And reports state that Whitwell is set to agree a four-year extension with West Brom.

So, once that is officially confirmed and announced, attention should turn elsewhere.

Nat Phillips, Jayson Molumby, fan favourite Mikey Johnston and Chris Mepham are all on track to depart in 2028.

Of course, there is still plenty of time before those possible exits would come into action, but now is the right time to already be considering the next steps.

Come the 2027 summer window, it would be the optimal chance to cash in on any of the four, should they no longer be in the plans in B71.

So, West Brom have to already begin planning as to whether they see a future for any of those aforementioned four.

Which players are most likely to depart in 2027?

Mepham is not a guaranteed starter under Morrison and has only started in two of the seven Championship games this season so far.

As things stand, it would not be a surprise for the Baggies to look to part ways next summer with a final chance at windfall looming.

Additionally, Johnston may need to prove his fitness and that he can return back to the pacey and electric winger West Brom fans have known him to be.

If there are concerns over him, an exit could be on the cards.

Molumby is West Brom's longest-serving current player, and has started plenty of games already.

He has been key under Morrison, but has previously been linked with a move away.

While Phillips is undoubtedly an important player for the Midlands club, having started all but one of West Brom's Championship games this season.