The Baggies are poised to ask Blues for permission to speak to Hughton in the next 24 to 48 hours.
Albion have held talks with former Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri and ex-Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder Ray Wilkins as they seek a replacement for new England boss Roy Hodgson.
But it is understood Hughton remains the preferred option of Baggies chairman Jeremy Peace.
Hughton has remained the overwhelming favourite with bookmakers despite Albion interviewing other candidates.
Birmingham have the option of refusing them permission to speak to Hughton, who is operating on a one-year rolling contract, but it is unlikely.
Birmingham are currently operating under a transfer embargo after failing to produce their annual accounts. The club's owner, Carson Yeung, is also awaiting trial in Hong Kong on money laundering charges.
Source: FOOTYMAD
