Baggies target Boateng Given

Last updated : 16 June 2011 By Team Talk

The Baggies are looking to bolster their midfield ranks having released Giles Barnes and have now made a move for the talented 28-year-old, who has been on Albion's radar for a number of years.

Boateng previously saw a move to England collapse almost a decade ago when Steve McClaren tried to sign him at Middlesbrough - but he could not gain a work-permit.

Now he is a fully fledged Ghana international and a permit would no longer be an issue.

Ukrainian outfit FC Dnipro have also launched a bid and appeared on course to land him, but there has now been late interest from England which could scupper their bid.

"Derek is obviously flattered by the interest in England," his British representative Chris Nathaniel confirmed to skysports.com

"He knows the interest is strong and we are aware that at least one bid has been made for him."

West Brom are not the only side to be readying a move for Boateng, with both Sunderland and Stoke also reportedly considering bids.

Baggies boss Roy Hodgson would also face stiff competition if he firms up his interest in Manchester City goalkeeper Given, who admits he does not want to "jump ship" at Eastlands but "misses the buzz" of regular action.

The Republic of Ireland stopper spent most of last season on the bench after seeing Joe Hart establish himself as City's number one - and he may be open to a move to The Hawthorns as he'd be first-choice and could commute easily.

Given's wages could be a stumbling block, though, with Albion likely to offer to pay only part of his salary.

Source: Team Talk

Source: Team Talk