Baggies close in on Jones

03 June 2011 12:00

West Brom are close to completing the signing of Preston midfielder Billy Jones, Press Association Sport understands.

The 24-year-old had talks with the Baggies on Thursday and is expected to sign on Friday subject to completing a medical.

Footage of Jones in an Albion shirt at the club's training ground was accidentally released on the club's iPhone service on Thursday night before being removed.

Jones was Preston's player of the year last season and often played at left-back because of injury problems at Deepdale.

The former England Under-20 international began his career with Crewe before joining Preston on a four-year deal in 2007.

Jones is set to become West Brom head coach Roy Hodgson's second signing of the summer after Ipswich defender Gareth McAuley.

Hodgson is also still pursuing Blackpool midfielder David Vaughan, who is out of contract with the Tangerines.

He has already held preliminary talks with Albion and is keen to remain close to his North Wales home.

Sunderland and Rangers have also been linked with Vaughan, who has been offered a new contract by Blackpool but is keen to continue playing in the Barclays Premier League.

Source: PA