Cox on way out but Long not for sale, say West Brom

West Bromwich Albion's Simon Cox looks set to leave The Hawthorns this week – but Baggies boss Steve Clarke insists Shane Long is staying at the club.

Cox is poised to end his three-year stint in the Midlands with Blackburn heading a group of clubs wanting to sign the 25-year-old.

But Clarke has dismissed internet chatter that Long could follow his fellow Ireland international out of The Hawthorns.

Rovers had an initial bid for Cox rejected at the weekend following talks with Baggies officials.

But he still appears likely to move on this week with Blackburn boss Steve Kean tipped to up his offer while several other clubs including Leeds and Celtic are thought to be considering bids.

Leeds boss Neil Warnock is in the market for a new striker and is thought to have sounded out Albion about Cox.

And Celtic have been monitoring the former Reading man and could now make a move following an injury to Anthony Stokes at the weekend.

However, Blackburn are still clear favourite to land the striker as they look to rebuild their forward line after selling Junior Hoilett to QPR.

Rovers are expected to hold further talks with Albion this week with both clubs and Cox seemingly keen to conclude a deal.

The weekend saw internet speculation that Long was the subject of a bid from former club Reading.

But Royals boss Brian McDermott has played down the rumours and Clarke said: "We've had absolutely nothing on Shane.

"There have been no bids and he's not for sale. He's 100 per cent part of my plans."