Albion today confirmed a deal to sign Gabriel Tamas as Roberto Di Matteo admitted his interest in Crystal Palace’s Victor Moses.

The Baggies have agreed a loan deal with Auxerre for Tamas and the Romania defender will arrive in the next week, subject to a work permit and international clearance. And head coach Di Matteo has admitted his interest in making Palace forward Moses another January recruit, although any bid would still hinge on funds being raised in the transfer market.

“We are working behind the scenes and have a number of players we are watching and he (Moses) is one of them,” said Di Matteo.

“I have no idea how much chance we have of getting him. He did well against us but I knew him from before. I know him well.”

Moses has become one of English football’s hottest young prospects with some impressive displays for the Eagles, attracting scouts from a host of Premier League and Championship clubs to Selhurst Park.

Cash-strapped Palace are resigned to selling Moses in January to raise much-needed money and Albion have already sounded them out about his availability.

But Hawthorns officials acknowledge privately that they face stiff competition for his signature from clubs across the country and an auction between established Premier League sides could drive up the price out of the Baggies’ reach.

Tamas, however, is on the brink of sealing his move to The Hawthorns on loan for the rest of the season with a view to a permanent deal.

Auxerre, his parent club, reached an agreement to cancel the 26-year-old’s loan at Dinamo Bucharest, freeing them to agree a deal with Albion.

The Baggies hope Tamas will be available to make his debut next Friday when Nottingham Forest visit The Hawthorns.

Di Matteo did not name Tamas today but was clearly alluding to him when speaking of his hopes of recruiting a defender.

“We’re working on it but he won’t be available for Saturday,” said the Italian.

“Hopefully he’ll be eligible for the next available game.”