West Brom have joined to race to sign Alan Hutton according to The Sun on Sunday [30/6, p.59].

The right-back is available on a free following his release by Aston Villa, and has also attracted interest from Nottingham Forest and Wigan, and is believed to have previously agreed terms with The Latics.

However, that move now looks in doubt and the emerging interest from other Championship clubs hints that Hutton is yet to decide his future.

He could be persuaded by the move to The Hawthorns, and the opportunity to work for Slaven Bilic. The Baggies are in need of a full-back too - Allan Nyom is the only right-back in the squad and he could depart this summer.

Furthermore, a possible move to Nottingham Forest could now be in doubt due to Martin O'Neill's sacking, and with Wigan now looking unlikely West Brom could arguably be in pole position.

Hutton is 34 but still showed he has a valuable role to play last season, playing 34 times as Aston Villa were promoted to the Premier League.

The Verdict

This would be a great move from West Brom to snatch him away from Wigan's grasp. Hutton proved he is a quality Championship player last season and he still has a lot to offer despite his age.

He has a winning mentality and has experience in getting out of the Championship, which is exactly what West Brom need. His experience should prove vital, particularly as The Baggies look set to sell Craig Dawson, which would mean they lack a commanding, composed player at the back.