West Bromwich Albion 'to approach Dean Smith'

West Bromwich Albion are reportedly planning to make an official approach to Brentford boss Dean Smith over their managerial vacancy.

The Baggies are almost certain to be relegated from the Premier League this term, sitting five points from safety in the table with just two games of their season remaining.

Alan Pardew was sacked last month after a record of just one win in 18 games, leaving the club in the hunt for a new manager for a potential Championship campaign.

According to the Daily Mail, West Brom have already identified Smith as the man to spearhead their promotion charge and plan to approach him in the coming weeks.

The newspaper also claims that the club want to bring in Michael Appleton - currently assistant at Leicester City - as Smith's number two.

Darren Moore is in caretaker charge of the Midlands outfit for their final two games of the campaign.