German coach Ralf Rangnick declines West Bromwich Albion

Former Schalke 04 boss Ralf Rangnick has turned down the chance to become the new manager of West Brom, according to his agent.

Rangnick has been consistently liked with the vacant Hawthorns post but his agent has said that he has decided against a move to England.

"After careful consideration, Ralf Rangnick has decided not to proceed with the offer from West Brom," the German's agent told Bild.

Rangnick's refusal leaves the path clear for former Liverpool assistant manager Steve Clarke to join the Midlands club.

Clarke has quickly become the favorite for the Albion job after leaving Liverpool on Wednesday.

West Brom have been without a coach since former boss Roy Hodgson left the position to take over as England national team manager.