West Brom boss Tony Mowbray admits Kevin Phillips is likely to accept a move to Birmingham City.
Former Sunderland striker Phillips, who turns 35 later this month, is holding out for a two-year contract.
Mowbray said: "I'm pretty sure his preferred choice would be to stay here.
"But, at this moment, it is unlikely he will stay here.
"If there's a stumbling block that we can't overcome then so be it."
Phillips' goals helped West Brom to promotion last season but Mowbray is prepared to look elsewhere for a frontman to lead his attack in the top flight.
"My strong belief, particularly when footballers get to 35, is that I find it very hard to hand out two-year contracts to 35-year-olds - however well they've done," he said.
"I genuinely believe if Kevin wants to stay, he should back his ability and earn his second year."
Mowbray added: "We're looking for another striker regardless of what he does."
