West Bromwich Albion to step up Chris Hughton chase

West Bromwich Albion are prepared to approach Birmingham City for permission to speak to Chris Hughton within the next 24 hours, according to reports.

The Baggies have already held talks with Claudio Ranieri and Ray Wilkins with a view to succeeding Roy Hodgson at The Hawthorns.

However, the club's chairman Jeremy Peace is said to prefer a move for Hughton, according to The Express.

It is believed that any approach will be considered unwelcome by the Blues hierarchy, who hope that the 53-year-old will bring Premier League football back to St Andrews.

The former Newcastle United manager is on a one-year rolling contract at the Midlands club.