Manager Roy Hodgson was unable to push through a deal in August due to competition from other clubs and his own pursuit of Reading striker Shane Long.
However, Albion's board are ready to bolster the squad in January and Hodgson is busy trying to put deals in place for Onuoha and Dundee United's young midfielder Scott Allan.
Out of favour: Nedum Onuoha (left) has played just one game for Manchester City this season and could be heading to West Bromwich in the January window
City are happy to sell Onuoha but Albion may face competition from Everton, Bolton and QPR, who were all keen in the summer and still need defensive reinforcements.
The 24-year-old is eager to get back playing after a difficult last few months at City having enjoyed an impressive loan season at Sunderland last term.
Target: Roy Hodgson wants to sign Nedum Onuoha
Everton may struggle to raise the cash required while Bolton know they may need Onuoha as a replacement for Gary Cahill. Chelsea are among the frontrunners for the England international who is out of contract in the summer.
With that competition in mind, Albion are pressing ahead but the stumbling block may yet be his wages of around ?40,000 a week.
Allan, meanwhile, is 19 and out of contract in the summer. Although he has barely played for Dundee United he is recognised as a player of potential and has attracted interest from Newcastle, Celtic, Rangers and Manchester United.
Contract talks with his club have faltered so far and they are ready to sell now with Albion looking to pay around ?450,000.
?Arsenal 3 West Brom 0: Dutch delight as Van Persie's hot-streak continues in easy winMy friend Arsene was deeply hurt by criticism for poor start, says HodgsonRichards in Twit of bother after City star is snubbed by England boss Capello againAll the latest West Bromwich Albion news, features and opinionAll the latest Manchester City news, features and opinion
Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail