leon barnett

[jayp]

West Bromwich Albion are understood to be closing in on the signing of Luton's Leon Barnett.

The 21-year-old is reported to have held talks with The Baggies after the two clubs struck a deal which could eventually be worth £3million to Luton.

The highly-rated stopper has been linked with Premier League Reading, but West Brom look set to win the race for his signature.

Barnett is now set to following in the foot-steps of former Baggies colleague Curtus Davies - who moved to the Hawthorns in a similar deal in 2005.

Now, ironically, Barnett is seen by many as the man who will indeed replace Davies - who is anxious to quit West Brom for the top-flight.

It is also reported that The Baggies are bracing themselves for further enquiries for defenders Paul McShane and Paul Robinson.

Robinson and McShane were both high on Sunderland's wanted list and the Black Cats are now again said to be looking at the former Manchester United central defender.

Wigan are said to be considering a move for Robinson, who is seen as a possible replacement for Leighton Baines - who has been in talks with Sunderland.