West Brom close to Sakiri signing

West Brom are ready to complete the signing of CSKA Sofia midfielder Artim Sakiri, the Macedonia international who scored direct from a corner against England.

The 29-year-old has signed a pre-contract agreement to join the Baggies, providing he is granted a work permit.

An application for Sakiri’s permit has already been lodged by the Baggies who plan to seal the deal as soon as they get the go-ahead.

Should the initial application prove unsuccessful, the club have confirmed their intention to appeal.

An Albion spokesman said: “Although it’s impossible to give a precise timescale, we’re optimistic we can complete the signing soon.

“All we’re waiting for is the work permit, hopefully that will come next week if not this week, and the contract will follow very quickly after that.”

West Brom expressed concern last week over reports linking Sakiri with a move to Fenerbahce as they had already signed a preliminary agreement with the player.