Crystal Palace confirm interest in West Brom misfit Peter Odemwingie

Striker's future uncertain after he attempted to force switch to QPR

Ian Holloway would like to sign Peter Odemwingie for Crystal Palace, but feels a move for the unsettled West Brom striker might be out of his club's reach.

Reports this morning suggested that Odemwingie, who caused a transfer deadline day stir by driving to QPR uninvited in a bid to push through a move, could be loaned out to Holloway's npower Championship club until the end of the season.

The Eagles manager was asked about the rumours at a press conference ahead of tomorrow's game with Watford, and confirmed contact had been made with his chairman, Steve Parish, about the player but felt that a deal was far from being done.

"Someone contacted the chairman. I was asked if I would want him (Odemwingie). I said yes," Holloway said.

"I don't think he's a realistic target for us personally."

Press Association Sport understands Holloway is not optimistic about doing a deal as he feels other clubs may also be in for the player.

It is understood, however, that talks have taken place which could see Odemwingie head to Selhurst Park and then sign a permanent deal in the summer.

The Nigeria international looks to have no future at West Brom, with Baggies manager Steve Clarke describing his unauthorised drive to Loftus Road as "total lunacy" and chairman Jeremy Peace calling him "wholly unprofessional".

QPR failed with two bids for Odemwingie, who launched a series of Twitter attacks against the club after having a transfer request rejected.

It remains to be seen whether Albion would allow him to leave at this juncture, if Palace could afford his £39,000-a-week salary or whether Odemwingie wants to drop out of the top flight.

Odemwingie was largely attracted by a salary on offer of nearly £70,000 a week at QPR.

Clarke is aware Odemwingie's departure would reduce his options but is also conscious his actions have not gone down well in some parts of the dressing room.

Odemwingie returned to training this week after being allowed to miss the weekend clash with Tottenham.

West Brom are also braced for a renewed attempt by Blackburn to sign winger Jerome Thomas, although it could now only be on loan with the closure of the transfer window.

Thomas was close to making a £600,000 move last Thursday to Ewood Park but the deal failed to go through in time.

Rovers boss Michael Appleton - a former West Brom number two - confirmed last week he was interested in signing Thomas.

PA