Albion call off David Vaughan chase

Albion today dramatically pulled the plug on their bid to sign midfielder David Vaughan.

The Baggies unexpectedly withdrew from the race to sign the Wales international after a last-minute change of heart by the Hawthorns hierarchy.

Vaughan had been due to deliver his decision to Albion today, following a summer of discussions with several Premier League clubs following his departure from Blackpool.

But the Baggies pre-empted the 28-year-old's announcement by opting out – a decision that could open the door for new discussions with former Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker.

Albion boss Roy Hodgson is an admirer of Vaughan and the club had held positive discussions with the player over personal terms at the Hawthorns.

But Baggies transfer chiefs – including Hodgson, sporting director Dan Ashworth and chairman Jeremy Peace – have now decided to focus that slice of the playing budget on other targets.

That could yet prompt them to revisit Reo-Coker, after they held intitial talks with his representatives before negotiations went on the back-burner.

The former West Ham captain left Villa as a free agent at the end of last season and is yet to find a new club, despite talks with potential new employers across Europe.

But his wage demands could still pose a problem for Albion, should they decide to make a move.

The latest developments regarding Vaughan are certain to be noted at Wolves and Birmingham, both of whom lodged an interest with the Welshman's representatives.

Vaughan is not thought to be a priority target for Molineux boss Mick McCarthy while Alex McLeish, the Blues manager who expressed an interest in the player, has since moved to Villa.

Albion are still expected to complete a deal to re-sign Zoltan Gera on a free transfer before the weekend after the 32-year-old held talks and underwent a medical.

And the Baggies are continuing their hunt for a new goalkeeper, amid reports from Poland that Manchester United have slapped a £4million valuation on Tomasz Kuszczak.

[24link]