WBA and Hornets target Whelan

[Olzy]

West Brom and Watford have reportedly joined Burnley, Plymouth and Stoke in the race to sign Sheffield Wednesday's Glenn Whelan this month.

The 24-year-old midfielder is out of contract at Hillsborough in the summer and has hinted he is unlikely to pen a new deal with the struggling Owls.

So boss Brian Laws must decide whether to cash in on him before next week's closure of the transfer window or risk losing his talisman for nothing.

Argyle, the Potters and the Clarets have been long-time admirers of Whelan, arguably Wednesday's best player, but now Championship leaders Albion and the high-flying Hornets have also entered the frame.

The Irishman is keen to join a club with Premier League ambitions, putting the Baggies, Stoke and Watford in the driving seat.

But Albion may have a slight edge as they are three points clear at the top of the table - and also have Whelan's former Owls team-mate Chris Brunt on the books at The Hawthorns.