Report: West Brom want Manchester United’s Phil Jones on loan

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West Bromwich Albion boss Sam Allardyce is hoping to convince Phil Jones to move to the Hawthorns on loan during the January transfer window, according to the Daily Star.

The Baggies are gearing up for their first game under their new boss today. Victory over Aston Villa would take them level on points with those either side of the drop zone line.

It is obviously going to be a crucial window at the Hawthorns. And it appears that Allardyce has already identified one former player he would like to sign.

According to the Daily Star, West Brom are involved in a three-way battle with Burnley and Derby County to take Jones on loan. It is noted that Manchester United are prepared to cover a large portion of his £120,000-a-week wages.

TBR View: Jones signing could still be a gamble for West Brom

It remains to be seen what impact Allardyce’s appointment has on West Brom. It would be no surprise to see them become a lot stronger defensively.

They do boast a poor defensive record. But the five they conceded against Crystal Palace has proved to be an anomaly in recent times. They have let in five in the five games around that heavy defeat.

Of course, many may point to Sam Johnstone’s inspired form as a key reason for that. But it also perhaps highlights that signing an out-of-form defender on loan in January may not be the smartest way to use whatever funds they have.

West Brom have one more spot for signing a Premier League player on loan. Conor Gallagher’s form shows how important using it wisely could be.