Nicolas Anelka's West Brom future unclear amid speculation
Nicolas Anelka was due to train with Albion today despite another weekend of speculation over his future – including a link to Italian giants Lazio.
Italian media reports insist that the Rome club have spoken to Anelka's representatives about a possible escape route from the Premier League, where he is awaiting an FA hearing over his controversial 'quenelle' celebration.
But it is understood the Baggies have not heard from Lazio about a possible transfer and still expect Anelka to figure in Wednesday's crucial derby clash at Villa.
Reports from Italy claim talks were held on Saturday between the Anelka camp and Lazio over a possible six-month deal for the 34-year-oldto end his unhappy spell in the Midlands, which could yet end in a lengthy FA ban.
But it is believed no discussions took place between the clubs, suggesting the contact between the player's agent and Lazio did not go beyond a preliminary chat.
Anelka's future remains uncertain, however, with an FA hearing expected to take place in late February after he denied a charge that his celebration in the 3-3 draw at West Ham was anti-Semitic.
If the charge is deemed proven, it would result in a suspension of between five and 10 games, effectively ending his season and placing pressure on the Baggies to deal severely with the former Arsenal and Chelsea man when they conclude their own internal enquiry.
Anelka's potential absence later in the season leaves Albion with the prospect of a striker shortage after the sale of Shane Long to Hull, but the Baggies are expected to stick to their guns and focus only on loans in the final days of the January transfer window.
The window closes on Friday with Albion linked over the weekend with Burnley's £7m-rated England Under-21s striker Danny Ings.
However, Baggies sporting and technical director Richard Garlick has already stated that no transfer fees will be spent this month.
Meanwhile, Wigan have joined Championship rivals Bolton in expressing an interest in loaning Hawthorns youngster Craig Dawson.
The centre-back is frustrated at a lack of first-team opportunities with Albion, but his absence would leave the Baggies with just three senior centre-backs available to new boss Pepe Mel.
