West Brom close in on Aston Villa striker John Carew

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Updated: 06:40 EST, 6 January 2011

On the move? John Carew

West Brom are stepping up their bid to sign Aston Villa’s out-of-favour striker John Carew.

Baggies boss Roberto Di Matteo is looking to bring in new blood up front after a recent goal drought - and Carew fits the bill.

He has been Villa’s leading marksman for the past three seasons including 17 during the 2009-2010 campaign.

But the Norwegian international, who is out of contract in the summer, has slipped down the pecking order this season and struggled for form.

He was also involved in a public spat with Houllier over being challenged to win a new contract although this was played down by both parties.

Initial negotiations have taken place although Albion stress Carew is only one of several potential targets.

They were interested in taking Manchester United’s Federico Macheda on loan before he opted for a temporary move to Sampdoria.

West Brom have managed to find the net only three times in the past five matches and slid close to the relegation zone.

It has coincided with a mini goal drought from top scorer Peter Odemwingie who has not netted since December 5.

Meanwhile, Baggies defender Marek Cech is to undergo a scan today on the knee injury suffered during Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat at Fulham.