Former Bristol City manager Derek McInnes is moving into the frame for the West Bromwich Albion job, according to reports.
The Baggies' search for Sam Allardyce's replacement is dragging on and talks with former Huddersfield Town manager David Wagner have collapsed, forcing the club to pursue alternatives.
And Football Insider reports West Brom have made contact with ex-City boss McInnes regarding the vacancy. The former midfielder made 100 appearances for the club.
The 49-year-old is out of work after leaving Aberdeen in March, meaning he would be available without without the need for a compensation payment – something which appeals to West Brom after losing their place in the Premier League against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.
McInnes took charge at Ashton Gate in 2011 after an impressive spell in charge at St Johnstone.
The Scotsman was able to steer City to safety after being tangled in a relegation battle for much of 2011/12, but he was sacked the following season following a run of seven successive defeats. The Robins finished bottom of the Championship that season, 14 points from safety.
But McInnes rebuilt his reputation with Aberdeen, spending eight years at Pittodrie, which included a Scottish League Cup win in 2014 and an impressive 53 per cent win percentage from 378 games in charge.
McInnes is currently third-favourite for the job according to the bookmakers at 5/1, narrowly behind Michael Appleton and Chris Wilder at 4/1 and 9/2 respectively.
