West Brom set for a battle over Chris Hughton

Albion were today set for a tug-of-war over Chris Hughton as they prepare to make their move for Roy Hodgson's successor.

Albion were today set for a tug-of-war over Chris Hughton as they prepare to make their move for Roy Hodgson's successor.

The Baggies are expected to make concrete moves to replace the new England manager in the next few days.

And with Hughton still thought to be at the top of their shortlist, that could put the club on a collision course with their troubled West Midlands neighbours.

Albion still hope to make an appointment before the end of May in order to involve their new head coach in decisions over transfer targets.

Hughton is believed to have been identified as their preferred candidate after Hawthorns chiefs accepted they were unlikely to lure Roberto Martinez from Wigan, making a formal approach to Blues highly likely this week.

However, the St Andrew's hierarchy are not expected to make things easy with 53-year-old Hughton having led them against the odds to the Championship play-offs last season.

The terms of Hughton's contract – he is on a one-year rolling deal – should make any compensation discussions relatively straightforward.

But Blues would still attempt to keep Hughton by persuading him his future is at St Andrew's.

Blues are seeking new owners or outside investment to end the financial turmoil that has gripped the club and left Hughton's future in doubt.