By Stuart Kidson
June 17 2003

Gresty Road Boss reveals the truth behind his decision to block moves to bring 23 year old Hulse to the Hawthorns last season. Crewe Boss Gradi Says Hulse Can Go

Reports from Gresty Road reveal that Dario Gradi refused to let Rob Hulse join The Baggies last season because he felt the striker would not produce the goods for the Stars in Stripes. Boss Gary Megson wanted to sign the forward last season but the legendary Crewe manager blocked any such deal.

Transfer listed Hulse, could become the focus of Megson's attention this summer as he builds his squad for the coming season. Gradi has indicated that he is willing to listen to offers for the 23 year old and Ian Clarkson, a reporter at the Birmingham Post & Mail, indicates that Gradi wants the Baggies to re-open negotiations.

In the report Clarkson quotes Gradi as saying "Albion came in for Rob last season and I didn't let him go because I didn't think he would score many goals in a side that would struggle to get goals, but Albion did ask to be kept informed if anything changed. Rob agreed with me that last season was not the time to move but he wants to go now and we're ready to talk. Rob is now a better player."

The Baggies have money to spend during the summer thanks to the parachute payment they get for being relegated from the Premiership, but he has been told that he needs to bring in quality players that will not only get the Baggies back into the top flight, but survive there for at least a season until they are established in the Premiership.

Albion are also reported to be targetting Canadian international Jim Brennan from Nottingham Forest who is out of contract.