West Brom striker Shane Long emerges as target for Nottingham Forest

Albion striker Shane Long today emerged as a January transfer target for ambitious Championship promotion-chasers Nottingham Forest.

Forest boss Billy Davies is believed to be considering a big-money move for the Baggies hitman, who remains in contract dispute at The Hawthorns after an aborted £6.5m move to Hull on deadline day this summer.

The Ireland international's future remains uncertain after several months of talks to extend his contract failed to yield an agreement. His current deal is set to expire next summer, although Albion have an option to extend the contract by a further year.

Forest owner Fawaz Al Hasawi sanctioned a £5m bid for Charlie Austin over the summer and a deal was almost agreed before he subsequently moved to QPR.

A similar offer was made for then Celtic striker Gary Hooper, who ultimately joined Premier League Norwich for £5m.

And the East Midlands club are believed to be prepared to commit similar funds to land a forward in January.

They are also prepared to commit more than £30,000-per-week in wages for the right man – a figure that would increase Long's current salary significantly.