Albion have failed in an initial a bid to sign highly-rated Scotland Under-21 midfielder James McArthur.

Hamilton Academical have revealed the Baggies tried to sign the 22-year-old playmaker on loan with a view to a permanent deal.

But the SPL outfit have rejected the bid for their star youngster, although Albion could still return with an improved offer.

A statement from the Lanarkshire club said: “We have today rejected a written offer from West Bromwich Albion FC for the transfer of James McArthur based on an initial loan agreement.

“West Brom have been informed of our decision and we thank them for their interest.

“To date, theirs is the only written offer received but we have had verbal interest noted by two English clubs.

“As we have previously stated, we will not stand in the way of any of our players moving to a higher level.

“James has been a tremendous asset to our club and when he eventually leaves to further his career it will be with our best wishes.”

McArthur is vice captain at New Douglas Park, and has been capped at Under-21 level for Scotland. He has played in 17 of Hamilton’s 18 league games this term, scoring one goal.

Albion have enjoyed a notable success in the Scottish market recently with the bargain £100,000 capture of Graham Dorrans, who has become the club’s most sought-after player since his arrival from Livingston.

But they might have to part with cash up front to persuade Hamilton to part with McArthur, who has already played almost 150 games for the club after progressing through their youth ranks.

The final week of the transfer window looks set to pass with little activity at The Hawthorns but centre-back Leon Barnett could extend his stay at Coventry after spending the last three months on loan.

Sky Blues manager Chris Coleman said: “I have spoken to Leon and I think there are one or two other clubs speaking to West Brom for his services.

“We want to do a permanent deal and if we can’t do that then we want to extend his loan until the end of the season. Leon is interested in doing that himself so the chairman is speaking to West Brom and we will see what comes out of that.”