West Bromwich Albion are expected to make a move for Birmingham City youngster Demarai Gray in January, after Baggies boss Tony Pulis watched the 19-year-old against Aston Villa last week, according to the Telegraph.

Gray is highly rated at Birmingham, having joined the club's academy as an under-11, and the winger has enjoyed a growing reputation within the game having also represented England at under-18, under-19 and under-20 levels since breaking into the first team at St Andrew's.

Pulis reportedly watched the winger in the Blues Midland's derby clash with Aston Villa in the Capital One Cup last week, and is thought to be readying a £3.5 million bid for Gray.

A battle for the youngster's signature is expected to ensue in January when the transfer window reopens, but the lure of Premier League football may not be enough to convince Gray to make a switch, after the winger recently reiterated his happiness at the Championship side.

Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, Gray said: “My mind was always focused on wanting to stay at Birmingham [this summer]. I will know when it’s my time, when the time comes we will see what happens. But right now I have just signed a three-year contract, I am happy."

However, the contract that Gray signed means his transfer fee will drop in the new year, giving clubs renewed optimism in signing the highly-rated attacker.

Pulis is thought to have identified pacey attackers as the type of player West Brom need to sign in January, and Demarai Gray looks to be top of that list.

Birmingham have made a solid start to the season, currently sitting in 9th position with 12 points from eight games, but will travel to Brentford tomorrow night looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to bottom of the table Rotherham last time out.

Birmingham City fans.... What do you make of this news? Do you feel Gray will depart the club in January? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!