Pulis turns to Defoe

Tony Pulis has dropped a heavy hint that Jemain Defoe is a West Brom transfer target.

According to a report in the Birmingham Mail signing the soon to be released Sunderland striker has been discussed by the Baggies boss.

A clause in Defoe’s Sunderland contract grants the striker a free transfer if the Black Cats are relegated with a growing number of clubs ready to make a bid.

It had been assumed that the 34-year-old would return to London but after stints in Vancouver and Sunderland Pulis is hoping to convince Defoe about the benefits of a move to the Midlands.

After being recalled to the England squad being included in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad will be one of the striker’s priorities for next season.

A move to the Hawthorns should ensure that Defoe is well clear of the relegation scrap with Pulis keen to bring in a striker that seems assured of hitting double figures in the Premier League goal chart.