Long edging closer to agreeing Baggies extension

Republic of Ireland international striker Shane Long is closing in on agreeing a new long-term contract at West Brom.

Long, who is on a personal high after his goal against England, has a year plus a 12-month option left on his current deal with Hoffenheim, Schalke, Lazio and Seville all showing interest.

But Albion manager Steve Clarke is confident the club can agree a new contract with him and key midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu.

Clarke said: “It doesn’t matter how long it takes. It just matters that you get the right resolution to suit both parties and that they are happy with the contract.

“I don’t know the ins and outs, but modern day contracts seem to take forever to put together. We would like to think there will be a positive resolution with Shane and Youssouf.

“There’s no panic, but it’s nice to reward your players for their efforts during a season and to tie them down to a contract where they feel happy and comfortable.

“That is what we are trying to do.”