West Brom sign one and close in on another
Dec 31 2009 by Chris Lepkowski
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ROBERTO Di Matteo claims that Albion target Victor Moses has been on his own personal wish-list for some time - as the Baggies finalise the signing of Gabriel Tamas.
Romanian centre-half Tamas will sign on Janury 2 after Albion last night agreed a loan deal with a view to a permanent summer switch with French club Auxerre.
All being well he could make his debut against Nottingham Forest on January 8, provided he is granted a work permit and international clearance.
Di Matteo, meanwhile, would also like to bring-in Crystal Palace winger Moses during January, with sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth inquiring about his availability earlier this week.
The 19-year-old came to Albion’s attention earlier this season when he played at The Hawthorns but Di Matteo has been monitoring the youngster’s progress for a while.
“We are working behind the scenes and have a number of players we are watching and he (Moses) is one of them,” Di Matteo told the Birmingham Mail, who accepted that Albion may struggle to lure him should bigger clubs enter the race.
“I have no idea how much chance we have of getting him.
“He did well against us but I knew him from before.
“I’ve seen his development and know him well.”
Meanwhile, Di Matteo is having to contend with several unwell players ahead of this Saturday’s trip to Huddersfield.
The Italian, who is expected to recall Scott Carson following his three-game ban, has doubts over Graham Dorrans, Marek Cech and Jonas Olsson.
“We haven’t picked up any fresh injuries, just illness.
“When you get to December, January and February, I remember as a player, you can feel a bit run down and it’s easy to pick up a virus.
“Jonas played on Monday and wasn’t feeling great.
“He didn’t feel too well the night before.
“Olsson is still not well and the other two are Dorrans and Cech.
“All three are doubtful for Saturday at the moment.
“I will have to see on Friday who I have available for Saturday before I look to the youngsters.”
