West Bromwich Albion will have their transfer activity restricted during this transfer window under a business plan imposed by the EFL. Sky Sports News The disclosure was made amid concerns that it may violate the league's financial rules.
Albion reached the Championship play-off semi-finals last season, but lost in the second leg to Southampton, but their hopes of strengthening their squad this summer to push for promotion are now in jeopardy.
Sky Sports News The club’s financial health is sound and there is no risk that Albion will default on its debts. Rather, the threat is centered around whether the club can comply with the league’s financial guidelines.
Money issues have been linked to the club's previous owners, and the new owners are determined to strengthen the squad as much as possible, but are also likely to spend more.
Billkul Football WBA, a company owned by Florida businessman Sheelen Patel and his father Kiran Patel, bought an 87.8 per cent stake in Albion in February and is negotiating directly with the EFL to ensure it complies with the rules.
In fact, it is understood Albion's board have been working closely with the EFL on all player wage and trade matters over the past 18 months to ensure they are compliant with the rules.
Under league rules, clubs at risk of breaching PSR limits will have to adhere to strict new guidelines, with any new transfers having to be approved by EFL officials in advance.
The only fee West Brom have paid for a player so far is £500,000 for Swedish centre-back Torbjorn Heggem. Devante Cole, 29, arrived at the Hawthorns on a free transfer from Barnsley. Goalkeeper Joe Goldsmith and midfielder Ousmane Diakate were also free arrivals, as was experienced defender Paddy McNair, who joined on loan from San Diego.
Nine players have left The Hawthorns so far this summer as the club looks to reduce its overall wage bill.
Albion have had a difficult pre-season, losing to Bolton, Blackpool and Real Mallorca, with their only win this summer coming against Peterborough.
Their final pre-season game is against Birmingham City at St Andrews this afternoon.
