West Bromwich Albion hopeful of signing Salomon Kalou

West Bromwich Albion joint assistant manager Keith Downing has claimed that the club's hopes of signing Salomon Kalou are still alive.

The 28-year-old, who left Chelsea for Lille last summer, has claimed that he wants to remain in France, despite interest from the Baggies.

"We've stated an interest, we've had some negotiations and we're hopeful he'll come to West Brom," Downing told the Birmingham Mail. "We are still working to get players of his ilk to come to the club."

West Brom and fellow Premier League outfit West Ham United are said to have both triggered Kalou's £2.6m release clause.