Hull and West Brom to battle for Southampton striker

Mike Phelan and Tony Pulis look set to go head-to-head in the race to snap up out-of-favour Southampton striker Jay Rodriguez.

The Saints’ frontman is firmly behind Charlie Austin in the pecking order at St Mary’s, while both Hull and the Baggies could use some extra firepower up front.

Rodriguez has had a terrible run with injuries over the past few seasons, but 15 goals in 33 Premier League games for the Saints in 2013-14 – plus an England cap – is more than enough evidence of his talent.

Phelan is reportedly looking to to land the 27-year-old on a permanent deal, which would cost the Tigers around £11m.

But as joint-lowest scorers in the Premier League with just 10 goals in 12 games, the Hull boss may see that as may well spent.

Hull are also reportedly interested in Dundalk’s Daryl Horgan, with the 24-year-old winger producing a number of impressive performances for the Irish side this year.

Back to Rodriguez though, and if he doesn’t go to Hull on January, West Brom look to be the other option.

Pulis is reportedly only keen on a loan-deal at first however, amid continued speculation over the future of Saido Berahino.

The 23-year-old has made just four Premier League appearances this season, and hasn’t even made the bench for the last five league games.

Stoke are again believed to be courting a January move, so it seems Pulis may wait to see what happens there before making a punt for Rodriguez.

That could all be good news for Hull however, who certainly look the most likely destination for the Southampton striker right now.

But while they may have the edge in the transfer market, the Baggies are favourites when the two sides meet this afternoon.

Hull are 19/10 to win today, but West Brom are 13/8 as Phelan and Pulis go head-to-head.

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