Time may be running out for Nathaniel Chalobah to save West Brom career after development in last 24 hours

Time is ticking for Nathaniel Chalobah at West Brom, as reports indicate that contracts set to expire in 2024 are under scrutiny at The Hawthorns. Birmingham Live journalist Joe Chapman revealed that internal discussions are ongoing about extending contracts for key players who have proven themselves to Carlos Corberan.

The club is contemplating fresh agreements with players, including youth prospects like Tom Fellows, Alex Mowatt, Kyle Bartley, and Reyes Cleary, all of whom have contracts set to expire in a few months. The emphasis is on addressing the pressing need to renew contracts for players with contributions recognized by Carlos Corberan.

 

Given the significant number of players reaching the end of their contracts in June, West Brom faces a crucial task in fortifying their squad, especially when compared to promotion rivals. However, prioritizing this need must be preceded by putting the club and playing staff in order, possibly leading to some players departing once their contracts conclude.

Nathaniel Chalobah, in particular, is in jeopardy of missing out on a new contract at The Hawthorns, having failed to convince fans and Corberan of his suitability for regular starts this season. Despite his move to West Brom in January with an 18-month contract, signaling a potential temporary role with an opportunity to prove himself beyond June 2024, his limited role this season raises doubts about his future.

Corberan has favored other midfield partnerships, leaving Chalobah with only five starts in 17 appearances this season, totaling 465 minutes of Championship action. In his last start against Southampton, he had minimal impact, touching the ball only 29 times and winning just one duel in 56 minutes on the pitch.

Given West Brom’s challenging financial situation and the necessity to manage the wage bill, the likelihood of Chalobah staying in the West Midlands beyond his contract appears extremely slim. At this critical juncture, it’s evident that Chalobah is rapidly running out of time to salvage his West Brom career.