Baggies move for Chinese star

West Brom are believed to be interested in China captain Zheng Zhi who currently plays for Charlton Athletic.

Baggies boss Tony Mowbray is believed to have discussed the possibility of bringing the versatile Zheng to the Hawthorns, while trying to sign his team-mate Madjid Bougherra from the Addicks before he opted for Rangers.

The 27-year-old is a utility man, with the ability to play in both defence and midfield.

Charlton boss Alan Pardew has been told to reduce his squad as the club enters its final season of parachute payments following their relegation from the Premier League in 2007.

Should Zheng leave he would be the second big name to leave the Valley in quick succession after the departure of Bougherra earlier in the week.

Pardew admits he did not want to sell Bougherra, and said: "It's disappointing but you have to manage the club as the board see fit.

"The agenda that I was given this year was a bit of a shock to me, especially the financial situation we're in which wasn't made clear to me."

Talks are believed to be ongoing between the two clubs for Zheng, with Mowbray eager to lure the Chinese international to the Hawthorns.