West Brom set to steal Manchester United star from under Birmingham City’s feet

West Bromwich Albion have moved into pole position ahead of rivals Birmingham City for the transfer of Manchester United winger Tahith Chong.

The Baggies have made an astonishing last minute move for the tricky United forward who looked all but certain to be rejoining Blues on a permanent deal this summer.

According to Darren Witcoop, Sunday Mirror’s Sports News Editor, Chong is expected to move to the Hawthorns if a transfer for Callum Robinson is sanctioned today.

And over the last hour or so, it has been reported that Robinson will join Cardiff City on a permanent deal, thus leaving the door open for the 22-year-old to link up with Albion.

Witcoop wrote via his Twitter page:

“Birmingham have seen a move for striker Josh Maja collapse overnight while Manchester United target Tahith Chong could now be heading to West Brom on loan rather than returning to St Andrew’s. WBA to sanction Callum Robinson’s exit if get the Chong deal over the line #bcfc #wba”

There are reports suggesting that Blues’ bid for Chong is not yet fully dead in the water but it isn’t looking good from their perspective.

Albion have already beaten Birmingham to one signing this summer - landing Brandon Thomas-Asante from Salford City when it looked all but certain that he would be heading to St Andrew’s.