West Brom are reportedly turning their attention to Oxford United as they look to strengthen their midfield during the January transfer window.
According to Michael Bleech on X, the Baggies have added Cameron Brannagan and Brian De Keersmaecker to their shortlist of potential signings, signalling their intent to reinforce a midfield that has struggled for consistency this season.
De Keersmaecker, the Belgian international, has been a standout performer for Oxford and would reportedly command a fee in the region of £3.5m if West Brom were to secure his services.
Brannagan, meanwhile, brings a wealth of English lower-league experience and has been a key figure for Oxford over the past few seasons.
The pairing would give West Brom a blend of tactical intelligence, technical ability, and creative spark, qualities that manager Eric Ramsay is keen to inject into his squad as the Championship campaign enters its critical second half.
Here’s what the duo could bring to West Brom if the move goes ahead:
Both Brannagan and De Keersmaecker are known for their ability to control the tempo of a game.
Brannagan, with his composure and range of passing, can dictate play from deep, while De Keersmaecker combines energy and tactical awareness to protect the backline and maintain structure in midfield.
Their presence could help West Brom dominate possession more effectively and reduce periods of vulnerability in central areas.
Brannagan is adept at linking defence and attack, with a vision that allows him to unlock defences with precise through balls.
De Keersmaecker also possesses a clever eye for forward passes and has a knack for arriving in the right positions to exploit space.
Together, they could add a much-needed creative edge to West Brom’s midfield, helping the team break down stubborn Championship defences.
Both players are comfortable in multiple midfield roles.
Brannagan can operate as a deep-lying playmaker or in a box-to-box capacity, while De Keersmaecker has experience in more advanced positions as well as holding midfield.
This versatility would give West Brom the flexibility to adjust tactics mid-game without compromising cohesion, an asset in a league as unpredictable as the Championship.
De Keersmaecker in particular is known for his relentless pressing and ability to win the ball back quickly. Brannagan complements this with intelligent positioning and anticipation.
Their combined defensive work rate would provide additional protection for West Brom’s back four, crucial in matches where the team needs to absorb pressure and maintain control.
While both players are still in their mid-20s, they bring a level of experience that can be invaluable in the high-stakes environment of the Championship.
Brannagan has played a key role in Oxford’s midfield for several seasons, and De Keersmaecker’s international experience at youth levels adds another dimension.
Their influence could help guide younger players and provide stability during the grueling second half of the season.
Interest in the duo highlights West Brom’s intent to bolster midfield options as they aim to mount a sustained challenge for promotion.
While neither club has officially commented, the report from Michael Bleech on X suggests that Brannagan and De Keersmaecker are viewed as players capable of making an immediate impact in the Championship, and their potential arrival could signal a decisive move in the Baggies’ January recruitment strategy.
