We can Bag Owen talks next week

Posted Sunday, July 17, 2011 by thesun.co.uk

We can Bag Owen talks next week
Prem Chance ... ex-Utd ace Hargreaves

WEST BROM insist they could turn talks with prime target Owen Hargreaves into a face-to-face meeting as early as next week.

And the Baggies' sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth claims the former Manchester United and England midfielder would be a "wonderful" signing - if he proves his fitness.

United freed Hargo, 30, after just 27 games in four years due to knee problems.

But Ashworth revealed West Brom were keen on Hargreaves even before he posted YouTube clips in an attempt to prove he was in top physical shape.

Ashworth added: "We have been in talks with Owen.

"He's based over in the United States at the moment so we might try to get to meet him in the next week or so and see if he would consider coming to us.

"If Owen is fit to play Premier League football, it is a no-brainer.

"Make no mistake, Owen Hargreaves is a fantastic player. He's shown he's a top, top player from his England, Manchester United and Bayern Munich days.

"Obviously, Owen has had a few medical issues over the last few years. But we would be absolutely delighted to get a fit Owen Hargreaves.

"That would be a wonderful signing for us."

Ashworth also believes West Brom have a secret weapon in their bid to lure Hargreaves - a 'fantastic' medical team.

He said: "The three things we've got going for us are: one, we're in the Premier League, which is attractive in itself; the second thing is we've got a fantastic medical team. We had an unbelievable hit-rate last season in terms of player availability.

"I think that's attractive to Owen, that we've got a proven track record in the last couple of years of maintaining players and keeping them out on the pitch, which is the most important thing.

"Thirdly, we were the first club to contact him. He's told me that, and he appreciates that.

"I'd like to think we've got a chance - but Owen has plenty of other options as well."