The football transfer window, a period of intense speculation and often dramatic last-minute deals, has become an integral, albeit sometimes frustrating, part of the modern game. Since its introduction in the summer of 2002, the window has offered fans the tantalizing prospect of new signings, yet it has also been a source of considerable angst and questionable decision-making for clubs. This article revisits some of the most memorable and, at times, bizarre transfer window dealings by Albion, offering a glimpse into the chaos and emotion that define this unique period in football.
Early Winter Window Woes: January 2003
Albion’s inaugural winter transfer window in January 2003 was characterized by a distinct lack of organization. With managing director Brendon Batson on holiday, the club found itself a target for agents eager to offload their players. While established professionals like Roberto Rios and Salva Ballesta did not make the move, Albion did secure the signing of Ifeanyi Udeze, a Nigerian defender from PAOK. Udeze’s nervous demeanor during his first press conference, which prompted a veteran journalist to question if he needed medical attention, foreshadowed his challenging time at the club.
Summer of Significant Signings: Summer 2004
The summer of 2004 saw a more decisive approach to transfers under manager Gary Megson. Opting to take direct control of recruitment, Megson brought in high-profile players such as Kanu, who became the club’s first £20,000-a-week earner, alongside Jon Greening and Zoltan Gera. Gera’s acquisition was particularly noteworthy; his talent was initially brought to the club’s attention through a recommendation from David Pleat, who had identified him during his time as Spurs manager. Gera’s emotional reaction upon realizing he would be playing in the Premier League underscored the significance of the move for him. This period also saw the signings of Martin Albrechtsen and Rob Earnshaw, with the former’s arrival coinciding with the departure of Lee Hughes. The signing of Cosmin Contra, a loan from Atletico Madrid, added another layer of intrigue, reportedly occurring without the full awareness of Gary Megson. Adding to the summer’s transfer narrative was Inamoto, whose pre-existing leg injury meant he never fully featured under Megson, yet his signing was triggered during the manager’s final game.
Navigating Managerial Uncertainty: Summer 2003
In the summer of 2003, then-owner Jeremy Peace deliberated over Gary Megson’s future as manager. During this period, potential transfer targets were discussed, including Jody Craddock and Thomas Gaardsoe. Craddock ultimately joined Wolves, while Gaardsoe became a key player for Albion, eventually earning the club’s player of the year award.
Frustration and Fleeting Fortunes: January 2006
January 2006 brought a dose of reality to transfer plans. Bryan Robson’s pursuit of Middlesbrough teammates Ugo Ehiogu and Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink was abruptly halted by owner Jeremy Peace, despite Robson having sanctioned the departures of Rob Earnshaw and Geoff Horsfield. This decision significantly impacted Robson’s morale.
A Rollercoaster of Signings: Summer 2006
Despite his frustrations, Bryan Robson managed several notable signings in the summer of 2006. Goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbuhler’s arrival was initially met with skepticism due to a tip-off about his performance, but Robson stood firm, leading to a memorable press event organized by director Joe Brandrick. The acquisition of Kevin Phillips, however, was a more straightforward success, with Robson quickly securing the striker ahead of Sunderland.
Deadline Day Drama and Desperation: Summer 2013
Summer 2013 was marked by a series of missteps. Diego Lugano’s signing, based on analytical data, failed to account for his lack of pace. Manager Steve Clarke was reportedly unaware of Matej Vydra’s imminent arrival. Furthermore, the signing of Victor Anichebe for nearly £6 million occurred shortly after a conversation with an Everton legend, highlighting a reactive rather than strategic approach to recruitment.
Swift and Savvy Signings: Summer 2012
In contrast, the summer of 2012 saw a highly successful and discreet acquisition of Claudio Yacob on a free transfer. The club’s talent spotter, Stuart White, identified the player, and sporting director Dan Ashworth’s persistent efforts secured the deal, fending off interest from top clubs.
Missed Opportunities and Near Misses: Summer 2006 and 2009
Albion’s inability to secure certain high-profile players marked significant missed opportunities. Tony Mowbray’s interest in Robert Lewandowski was thwarted by financial constraints. Similarly, in 2006, a whiteboard in Bryan Robson’s office revealed transfer targets, including Eduardo da Silva, who later moved to Arsenal for a substantial fee. January 2007 saw Hibernian’s Scott Brown, a target for Mowbray, ultimately sign for Celtic after a board-level decision.
Last-Minute Mayhem and Meltdowns: January 2015
The January 2015 transfer deadline day was a chaotic affair. Martin Olsson faced travel disruptions due to snow, while Carlton Cole’s potential move from West Ham was scuppered by Tottenham’s late intervention in another deal. Cole’s subsequent outburst upon learning his transfer was off became a memorable moment.
Unfulfilled Potential and Unexplained Deals: 2022
The 2022 window featured the curious cases of Josh Onomah and Steve Alzate. Both players underwent medicals, but their transfers ultimately failed to materialize, leaving the reasons behind these collapses a mystery.
Questionable Acquisitions and Agent Influence: Summer 2017
Grzegorz Krychowiak’s arrival in Summer 2017 raised eyebrows, with his transfer seemingly driven by an agent relationship rather than a clear tactical fit. His perceived disinterest, earning him the nickname ‘Gap Year Greg,’ and substantial weekly wage contributed to a transfer that offered little return.
Contractual Conundrums and Player Disengagement: Summer 2015
Contrary to media reports, Tottenham’s bid for Saido Berahino in the summer of 2015 was significantly lower than stated. The protracted negotiations, coupled with Berahino’s growing disengagement from West Bromwich Albion, ultimately unsettled the player and led to his departure.
The Classic Deadline Day Fiasco: January 2013
Perhaps the most iconic transfer deadline day incident involved Peter Odemwingie’s dramatic appearance at QPR. A misunderstanding regarding permission to talk to QPR, complicated by Junior Hoilett’s potential involvement, led to Odemwingie heading to Loftus Road under the impression a deal was imminent. The ensuing media frenzy created one of the most memorable and amusing transfer deadline day spectacles, much to the chagrin of Albion’s management.
The transfer window continues to be a source of drama, excitement, and often, lessons learned the hard way. These instances highlight the complex interplay of ambition, strategy, and sometimes sheer chance that defines the world of football transfers.
