Bristol City linked with move for Hibs defender Jones

Bristol City are being linked with interest in giant Hibernian defender Rob Jones.

But a string of other clubs are also on the trail of the 6ft 7ins centre-back.

Despite having a year left on his Easter Road contract, 29-year-old Jones is expected to play his last game for the Edinburgh club against Aberdeen at Pittodrie tomorrow.

English born, he has made clear his desire to return south of the border for family reasons and a string of clubs from the Championship and below are lining up to try and secure his services.

They include newly-relegated West Bromwich Albion, Nottingham Forest, Derby County and Swansea City, as well as Bristol City.

Leeds United – defeated in the League One play-off semi-finals – are also involved in what could become a bidding war.

West Brom are understood to be favourites to land a player who started his career with non-league Gateshead before having spells with Stockport County and Grimsby Town.

Baggies boss Tony Mowbray paid £150,000 to take him to Hibs from Blundell Park three years ago.

Though Mowbray left Easter Road a few months later to take over at The Hawthorns, he remains an admirer of the player, who is currently captain of the Scottish club and led them to their first silverware in 16 years when they landed the Scottish League Cup in 2007.

Mowbray's assistant Mark Venus watched Jones play a starring role in the recent 1-1 draw against Rangers.

Albion are thought to be willing to offer £750,000 to reunite him with former Hibs team-mate Shelton Martis at The Hawthorns.

Colchester United had a £150,000 offer for Jones rejected during the January transfer window, while Forest also saw a £600,000 bid turned down.

But there is speculation in the East Midlands that City Ground boss Billy Davies is preparing a fresh approach of around £1 million.

Jones' agent Gary Gill confirmed: "A lot of clubs have shown an interest – Championship teams and the better ones from League One are keen.

"Rob has never hidden the fact he's interested in going back to England.

"There is potential there this summer for Rob to move on, but the fact he has a year left on his contract will have to be reflected in his fee."

Jones, whose height makes him a formidable force in both penalty areas, has scored eight goals in 95 Scottish Premier League outings for Hibs ahead of what is expected to be his farewell appearance this weekend.