West Brom looking to Nigeria star to inject pace into attack

West Brom manager Alan Irvine is wasting no time as he bids to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season with Chelsea’s Victor Moses the latest name linked with a move to the Hawthorns.

And the Nigeria international could prove to be an inspired signing as the Baggies look to overhaul a squad that finished just three points above the Premier League drop zone.

The 23-year-old was hauled off just after half-time as Nigeria drew 0-0 with Iran and was subsequently dropped for his side’s 1-0 win over Bosnia in what has been a disappointing World Cup for Moses.

But the Chelsea star, who failed to make an impact while on loan at Liverpool last season, was highly-rated for his performances at Wigan which in turn saw him earn a £9m move to Stamford Bridge.

Irvine, who is looking to replace wide players Scott Sinclair and Morgan Amalfitano after their loan spells finished at the club, believes Moses can recapture that form and has made him his top summer target.

Jose Mourinho is reportedly ready to let the Nigeria winger leave this summer but with the Blues unlikely to recoup what they paid for Moses another loan spell looks likely.

West Brom are not the only club reported to be interested in Moses though with Swansea, Newcastle, Southampton and Everton also keeping close tabs on the midfielder.

But with the former Crystal Palace man’s international teammate, Victor Anichebe, already at the Hawthorns, Moses is said to be keen on the idea of a move to the Midlands.

Irvine, who has already boosted his defensive options with the signing of Joleon Lescott, is also very keen on the move with the Blues forward’s pace and power expected to inject a new dimension to Albion’s forward line.

But first Moses will be focussing on the World Cup as Nigeria try to book their place in their second round.

Nigeria, who are 6/1 with Ladbrokes to upset the odds and beat Argentina, need just a point to progress with the draw available at 3/1.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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