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Pulis: Never says never on Berahino sale

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Albion are braced for a frantic end to the transfer window after Tony Pulis re-opened the door to the sale of Saido Berahino.

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Pulis criticised the summer transfer 'meat market' but refused to rule out the sale of Berahino despite chairman Jeremy Peace's emphatic statement on the striker's future on Thursday.

And the Albion boss, who hopes to sign David Marshall and Jonny Evans and offload Joleon Lescott before Tuesday's deadline, also declined to rule out a bid for unsettled Stoke forward Jon Walters. But Berahino's future is still set to dominate the final three days of the window despite Peace's attempt to draw a line under the saga involving Tottenham, who have had two bids rejected.

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Peace insisted Berahino will not be sold, but Pulis said: "I never say never about anything until it's closed and factual.

"I wasn't in the discussions the chairman had with Saido. I'll have a chat with the lad. It's not just about football – it's about the person, about the lad and what he's going through.

"He's a human being, he's not just a lump of meat who people are trying to sell. He has emotions and, having spoken to him, he needs protecting."

Albion still hope to complete a late deal for Marshall despite Cardiff insisting the Scotland international goalkeeper will not be sold.

And Evans is trying to tie up the loose ends of his departure from Manchester United. "We've been trying to do that for five or six weeks and it's been disruptive for Cardiff and for Marshall," said Pulis.

"I want Jonny. I think he would be a great signing for the club and now it's down to the money men and his side.

"Three parties have got to agree. That's the two clubs and the player himself.

"It takes three to get together and get the deal done, but I'd love to sign Jonny Evans.

"Everybody realises we have to bring some players in if we want to be where we want to be."