West Brom transfer regret deepens as £2.2m player turns into £12m Championship star

With just two matches remaining in the Championship season, West Bromwich Albion appear to have done enough to secure their status, regardless of whether a points deduction arrives.

A win against Watford has lifted the Baggies eight points clear of the relegation zone, allowing some breathing room as attention gradually shifts towards preparations for next season.

However, that doesn’t mean the campaign can simply be brushed aside. There is a strong case for serious reflection at The Hawthorns this summer, both on and off the pitch. From boardroom decisions to recruitment strategy, too many missteps have defined their year.

Recruitment failures have cost West Brom

Sorting out the club’s financial situation must be the immediate priority. Another issue with the Championship’s profit and sustainability regulations is the last thing they need, especially after coming dangerously close to serious consequences this term.

Beyond finances, recruitment has been a major concern. The past year has been particularly troubling, with decisions ranging from Ryan Mason’s appointment to the ill-fated Eric Ramsay stint proving costly.

These misjudgements have seen West Brom slide from playoff hopefuls into a relegation battle — a dramatic and worrying decline for a club of their stature. That said, the emergence of James Morrison as a potential long-term solution offers a glimmer of hope.

If Morrison is handed the role permanently, the Baggies may finally find stability in the dugout and redirect their focus towards strengthening the squad in the transfer market.

Transfer regrets continue to haunt

Recent transfer windows have left a trail of frustration. Signings such as Alfie Gilchrist have failed to deliver, while departures like Tom Fellows have weakened the squad.

The bigger mistake: Brandon Thomas-Asante

While several decisions warrant scrutiny, the sale of Brandon Thomas-Asante stands out even more. His 2024 move to Coventry City initially seemed inconsequential, with the forward having scored 21 goals in 78 appearances for West Brom.

Fast forward two years, and that transfer now looks like a significant miscalculation.

Sold for just £2.2 million, Thomas-Asante’s value has since surged by 445%, with estimates placing him around £12 million today. Financially, that represents a major missed opportunity for a club currently trying to steady its books. On the pitch, his presence could have elevated Morrison’s side considerably.

Below is a comparison of his contributions:

Thomas-Asante has played a key role in Coventry’s rise, saving his best form for their promotion push. With Premier League football now secured, he is on track to finish the campaign with 12 goals and four assists in the Championship.

While the move has clearly benefited the 27-year-old — offering him top-flight football and a fresh start — it has only added to West Brom’s list of regrets.

Coventry boss Frank Lampard has also praised the striker’s impact, highlighting his physicality, pressing ability, and overall influence on the pitch.

Ultimately, it’s a level of belief West Brom did not show when they opted to sell him in 2024 a decision that continues to look more costly with time.