James Morrison has stated that he wants to sign Harry Whitwell to a new deal, amid transfer rumours to Norwich City.
It was claimed earlier this summer that the teenager had piqued the Canaries’ interest following his loan spell with Forest Green Rovers last season.
The 20-year-old had been unable to break into the first-team plans at the Hawthorns, so he moved to the non-league side.
However, since his return to Albion, he has established himself in Morrison’s first team, appearing in both of the club’s opening league games this season.
The attacker also scored his first league goal for the club in a 3-1 victory over Burnley on Sunday.
His strike brought the game level at 1-1, and the Baggies went on to win all three points against the Clarets.
West Brom stats vs. Burnley (from Fotmob.com)
Stat
Figure
Expected Goals (xG)
1.63
Shots (on Target)
11 (7)
Touches in the opposition area.
24
Big chances
2
Accurate passes (percentage
447 (88%)
Yellow cards.
1
Corners: 3
James Morrison shares an update on Harry Whitwell’s future.
Morrison has stated that he wants Whitwell to stay at the club and has offered him a new contract, which will expire next summer.
The 40-year-old has pushed the Championship side to reach an arrangement with the player in order to prevent losing him.
“We’re all keen, as a club, to get it nailed down,” Morrison told the Express & Star.
“And I’m sure the club are working hard behind the scenes to get that done.”
Morrison has praised Whitwell, admitting that he has earned his place in the first-team squad and will continue to do so if he maintains his strong work ethic.
“[His opportunity] is fully deserved due to his hard work,” added the West Brom manager.
The time he spent returning from his loan last season did him more benefit than was anticipated.
“He could see what work he needed to accomplish during the summer.
“He presumably saw an opportunity for himself.
“His attributes benefit him in the form we’re playing in, and he’s confident right now.
“He’s another one that has to keep working, keep his feet on the ground, and I’ll give him the platform to showcase it.”
Whitwell has progressed through West Brom’s academy system, making his EFL Cup debut in August 2024 against Fleetwood Town.
The forward made his league debut in May 2025, coming off the bench in a 5-3 victory over Luton Town.
However, he only appeared twice more for Albion last season before being loaned out to Forest Green Rovers, where he made 23 league appearances and scored twice.
How West Brom fans view Harry Whitwell’s future
Norwich will have until 1 September to finalise any summer deal for Whitwell, as the market closes on Tuesday.
West Brom should focus on Harry Whitwell’s future.
Whitwell has been impressive in the first two rounds, and his goal against Burnley was undoubtedly a highlight.
The Baggies should be eager to lock him down to a new contract and put an end to all of the uncertainty over his future.
Academy players like Whitwell should be appreciated, especially since he is certain to remain a fan favourite even if his performances dwindle this season.
Allowing him to go either after his contract expires or after agreeing to a deal with Norwich would be a bad business decision, and Albion must avoid that.
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