Friday 5 May 2017 12:26, UK
West Brom manager Tony Pulis has warned that just because Jermain Defoe is a "free agent" doesn't mean his transfer fee will be cheap.
Sky Sports News HQ reported on Thursday that West Ham and Bournemouth were interested in Defoe as a clause in his contract allows him to leave Sunderland following their relegation.
And Pulis, who confirmed he has already narrowed down his transfer targets, warned that players available on a free transfer can still command large signing fees.
"Effectively he is a free agent," Pulis said. "But there is also a huge cost that comes along with that, whichever club takes him.
Pulis was pushed on whether Defoe was a potential summer target and hinted that the England international is one of many possibilities for the Baggies to consider.
"We've got our fingers in a few pies and if Jermain is one of them, we'll be pushing on that one," Pulis said.
"We have to improve and make the 11 better, and then that makes the club better."
Pulis also confirmed that defender Craig Dawson has been offered a new deal as he looks to retain his best players before the transfer window opens in July.
"Craig has been offered a contract," said Pulis. "The club want him to sign. It's just a case of getting it done. He's done smashing."
