WEST Bromwich Albion have today held further talks with Italian Claudio Ranieri.
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The 60-year-old met Baggies officials for a formal discussion at the club's London offices.
Albion held an informal chat with the out-of-work ex-Chelsea boss a fortnight ago.
Early indications were the experienced Ranieri had slipped off the radar - he has spoken to Fiorentina since his initial meeting with Albion - but he was called back for further talks today.
The latest development indicates that Albion are stepping up their search for Roy Hodgson's successor.
The club have insisted they will have someone in place by the end of the month.
Although Ranieri was called for more discussions, it is by no means an indication that he will be offered the job.
I understand there are talks planned with other candidates.
Ranieri's status as an unemployed boss makes him an easy candidate to speak to as Albion do not need to go through the procedure of asking another club for permission.
However, Albion have cast their net wide during this process - also sounding out the representatives of managers who are currently employed elsewhere.
Chris Hughton of Blues remains highly thought of by the club's hierarchy, although Albion have yet to make any formal approaches for him.
Blues have made it clear they will not welcome any approach from the Baggies
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Hmmmmm interesting.
Maybe why we've held off approaching B'ham for Hughton.
Would be very happy with either Ranieri or Hughton.
Ranieri holds further talks...
posted on 25/5/12
It's hotting up now...
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Its certainly hotting up. I think the Ranieri name excites and appeals to us all in a way but i think it would probably be the sensible and (long term) better appointment if we went for Hughton.
posted on 25/5/12
Baggies close on Chris
IN THE BAGG ... Chris Hughton
By MATT PARKER
Published: 29 minutes ago
WEST BROM want Chris Hughton as their new boss after holding a series of secret interviews in London yesterday.
The decision to go for Hughton is sure to put Baggies on a collision course with Midlands rivals Birmingham who are fiercely opposed to losing their manager.
It is now likely the clubs will lock horns in a £1million compensation battle over the 53-year-old, who is currently on a 12-month rolling contract with the Blues.
SunSport can reveal Hughton emerged as Baggies’ top choice after a dramatic day of talks in the capital.
Claudio Ranieri was there for a second interview along with two mystery overseas bosses. Wigan’s Roberto Martinez was a candidate until Liverpool made their interest in him known.
After a day of deliberation West Brom sporting director Dan Ashworth has urged chairman Jeremy Peace to make an official move.
Birmingham can now expect contact within the next 48 hours but they will be hostile to any bid.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/4336948/West-Brom-close-on-Chris-Hughton-after-secret-job-interviews.html
posted on 28/5/12
Quite exciting JHB.
Going to be something of a let down when Muppet Mick appears in a baggies scarf
posted on 28/5/12
I think when Villa finalise the deal to make Terry Connor their next manager, it will soften the blow
Which manager has turned you down this week?