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West Brom hold talks to sign Marseille winger Morgan Amalfitano

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West Bromwich Albion have stepped up negotiations with Marseille over winger Morgan Amalfitano as they wait for news of Nicolas Anelka's potential retirement.

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And Amalfitano's team-mate Jordan Ayew today emerged a possible transfer target in attack.

The Baggies hope to land several new signings before the September 2 transfer deadline regardless of Anelka's decision on his future.

And 28-year-old France international Amalfitano remains a serious target, although reports from Europe that the Baggies have made a concrete bid for the midfield man are thought to be premature.

Amalfitano, who can play in midfield or out wide, is available on loan with a view to a permanent move – a transfer that would appeal to the Baggies.

Hawthorns officials have been in close contact with their counterparts at the Stade Velodrome as they narrow down their list of potential signings with nine days left in the summer window.

Ayew has also emerged as a possible target with the 21-year-old Ghana international one of several forwards on the Baggies shortlist.

Marseille are willing to consider letting the 5ft 11in forward move to England. He has scored 12 goals in 41 league starts for the French club.

But any firm bid could hinge on Anelka's next move, with the France international set for further talks with the Baggies next week after he was given compassionate leave on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Albion Under-21s were beaten 4-0 by Manchester United at The Hawthorns yesterday afternoon.

The Baggies were 2-0 down at half-time through goals from Nick Powell and Angelo Henriquez and United had Adnan Januzaj and Tom Lawrence on target in the second period.