BEATTIES BAGGIES BLOCK

It was thought following Beatties bust up with Stoke manager Tony Pullis and reports suggesting Stoke were desperate to off load the striker from the wage bill at the Britannia stadium, that Beattie, 32, would be allowed to move clubs for free this summer.

However Pullis is now understood to be reluctant to let Beattie leave Stoke without recouping the full £2 million spent on the former England international.

With only 12 months remaining on the experienced strikers contract both The Baggies and Blackburn Rovers, who were also ready to make a move for Beattie, are unlikely to match Stokes valuation of the player.

It is unknown whether Beattie would be allowed to leave the Potteries on loan, meaning that unless Pullis and Beattie can kiss and make up, Beattie looks destined to be playing reserve team football next season.