Southampton attacker Jay Rodriguez is likely to leave the club on loan before the end of the transfer window. 

West Bromwich Albion and Hull City are both said to be chasing the 27-year-old forward. 

West Brom leading the race

It seems of all the destinations for Rodriguez, West Brom is looking the most likely.

Tony Pulis is swarching for suitable attacking options, in the hope of bolstering his Baggies side and Rodriguez would certainly be a good addition before the end of the month. 

The two clubs are said to be close to agreeing a deal, with the move potentially being finalised by the end of this week.

Rodriguez only came off the bench in Southampton's 2-0 defeat to Manchester United last weekend and it may take time for the Englishman to re-find his old form and match fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.  

Rodriguez will offer west Brom something different going forward. Photo source: Saintsfc
Rodriguez will offer West Brom something different going forward. Photo source: Saintsfc

Hull and other interests

Many supporters would have probably assumed Rodriguez would get the chance to stay at St. Mary's this summer, after recovering from an injury-stricken campaign last year.

However, many clubs seem to be willing to offer Rodriguez the chance to get his career back on track.

Earlier in the window there was talk that both Stoke City and Burnley were interested in signing the forward, but those links soon died down. Hull City, however, would also like to acquire the services of Rodriguez on a short-term loan. 

Hull still only have 13 fit senior players in their squad, meaning signing Rodriguez would give them a big boost, in what has already been a strong start to the season. 

Getting game time

Southampton have lost a whole host of star players this summer, which seems to be an unfortunate regularity for the Saints every summer.

Supporters may be confused as to why Rodriguez is being loaned out but it seems getting the attacker game time is the most important thing, rather than where he gets that game time.

The former Burnley man has suffered a succession of knee injuries and this season will be crucial in terms of reigniting his career.