Financial constraints have limited The Hawthorns’ ability to maneuver in the transfer market, and tensions about the current ownership are at an all-time high.
With some prominent players leaving to balance the finances, there is clearly a focus on lowering the pay bill.
While seasoned veterans Jake Livermore, Karlan Grant, and Tom Rogic are all out of the picture, Dara O’Shea’s departure to Burnley has brought in sizable riches.
The academy will be the head coach’s next stop to provide choices across the pitch because incomings are scarce.
Caleb Taylor
Since leading the U21 squad to victory in the Premier League Cup final against rival Wolves in the 2021–2022, Taylor has been one to watch. That same year, he made his first-team debut against Arsenal in an EFL Cup match.
The 20-year-old experienced his first taste of regular senior football last season when he temporarily transferred to Cheltenham Town of League One.
He established himself as one of the most interesting players in the third division and quickly established himself as a regular for Gloucestershire, making 45 league appearances
The defender has now made his way back to the Black Country and has been given a shot with the first team, going up against seasoned pros Semi Ajayi, Cédric Kipré, and Erik Pieters.
Harry Whitwell
Whitwell, who was only 17 years old last season, was Richard Beale’s U21 team’s bright spot.
The midfielder won the club’s Academy Player of the Season title for his work, making 18 appearances in Premier League 2 as he smoothly advanced through the minor ranks.
The England U18 international signed a contract with the Baggies last November that runs until 2025 and was a frequent participant in the team’s preseason activities.
While a spot in the first team is unlikely to open up soon, if he keeps up his impressive play for the U21s, the Spanish manager will find himself in a difficult situation with few high-caliber choices in center midfield.
Ethan Ingram
Ethan Ingram is given more room to flourish under Corberán’s new back-three formation because there aren’t many wing-back options.
The 20-year-old, who usually plays on the right side of the defense, has spent the past two seasons in the background with scant first-team appearances.
After making an impression in the Premier League 2, the England U20 international played 43 times over the course of the preceding two seasons, representing his country at several different age levels.
The teenage player also cemented his place in history during that period when he converted the go-ahead penalty in front of The Hawthorns faithful to defeat Wolverhampton Wanderers and win the Premier League Cup.
Ingram, who is gifted with speed and an attacking instinct, would be an intriguing choice for the right wing-back position and a worthy replacement for Darnell Furlong if money was not available to strengthen the complete backline.
Like Taylor, he played in the cup game against Stoke City and did well while still playing at the minor level.
As he enters the final year of his contract, it is crucial that he maximizes his although few senior opportunities. This will be difficult as he attempts to unseat Furlong from his preferred spot and perform well not just at the U21 level but also in the Championship.
