West Brom could make centre-back Matt Clarke's move to the Hawthorns permanent in the summer transfer window, according to a fresh rumour.

The Lowdown: Clarke shines for West Brom

The 25-year-old joined the Baggies on loan last summer, with permanent home Brighton deeming him surplus to requirements.

Clarke has been an important figure and rare silver lining in a frustrating season at the Hawthorns, starting 29 Championship matches and averaging 1.4 tackles and 1.9 interceptions per game - he is the third highest-rated player in the squad and leads the way in the latter statistic.

It is unknown whether or not the Englishman will remain at West Brom after his loan spell but a new update suggests that could be the case.

The Latest: Key report emerges

According to The Express & Star, the Baggies are confident that Clarke's temporary move will become permanent, with Steve Bruce now 'set to hold talks' with him.

It is stated that an overhaul will take place at the club and other defenders will leave, but he is seen as an important figure.

The Verdict: No-brainer for Baggies

Clarke has been a rare positive at West Brom this season, as they have fallen way short of the standards expected of them in August when many felt they were among the favourites for automatic promotion.

For that reason, it makes complete sense to sign the man hailed as 'big, strong and aerially dominant' by Brighton correspondent Richard Mills on a long-term deal in the summer, with his age meaning he should still have many years left at his peak.

It seems unlikely that Graham Potter sees Clarke as a key player for Brighton moving forward so this would surely be a transfer that suits all parties, exciting fans ahead of what is hopefully a far more successful campaign next term.

In other news, Steve Madeley has made a big West Brom claim. Read more here.