Two years ago, the Hatters were recruiting to stay in the Premier League, but failed.
A year ago, they were recruiting to stay in the Championship, and they failed. Now, as they enter a crucial January transfer window, they are recruiting to stay in the League One promotion race.
They shouldn’t be; with a budget four times that of some of their rivals, the Hatters should be clear at the top. Sadly, their priorities are becoming clearer with each passing week. This window is not about headline signings or cosmetic depth, but about addressing structural weaknesses that are repeatedly undermining performance under Jack Wilshere.
Creativity in midfield: the biggest concern
The most significant issue sits in midfield. Luton are crying out for creativity, ideally two players capable of unlocking defences and generating clear cut chances. The loss of players such as Asgaard and Barkley has never been properly addressed, and the knock on effect has been severe. Potentially, Emilio Lawrence will fit the bill, but it remains to be seen if he can impact senior football.
Zack Nelson and Joe Johnson have not performed at the level required and should be loaned out to continue their development. Without midfielders who can progress the ball, break lines and play incisive passes, Luton’s attacking play remains predictable and blunt. This lack of creativity is the primary reason chance creation has dried up.
Right back: a growing problem
Right back has quietly become one of the most pressing issues in the squad. Earlier resistance to recruitment in this area was based on perceived depth, but injuries and inconsistency have exposed how fragile that position really is. Both Walters and Isaiah Jones have struggled with availability, making it impossible for Luton to build any rhythm or balance down the right side.
As a result, Wilshere has been forced into makeshift solutions, using centre-backs or midfielders out of position. That has blunted attacking width and weakened defensive structure. A natural right back is now essential, ideally a short-term loan from a Premier League club that can fit Wilshere’s preferred style and provide immediate reliability.
Left back: no margin for error
The situation at left back is not quite as urgent, but it is precarious. Cohen Bramall has been one of the more dependable performers, yet there is no trustworthy cover if he is injured or suspended. Joe Johnson is widely viewed as not ready for the physical and tactical demands of League One football and would benefit far more from a loan in a positive, developmental environment.
Cal Naylor’s form has been inconsistent, leaving Bramwell as the only dependable option. Whether through a loan or a flexible squad addition, Luton need a solution here to avoid being one injury away from another positional crisis.
Why a striker is not the answer
There is a strong argument that signing a striker would be a misstep. The issue is not finishing, but supply. Players such as Naki Wells and Jerry Yates have fed off scraps rather than sustained pressure or quality service. Without midfielders capable of creating opportunities, any new striker would face the same problems.
Until Luton fix the engine room, adding another expensive forward risks papering over cracks rather than solving them.