The battle for West Bromwich Albion striker Shane Long is intensifying.

The Daily Star Sunday says Schalke and Hoffenheim have joined Liverpool in the race for Long.

But clubs will have to dig deep to force the Baggies into a sale, with The ­Hawthorns club set to demand £12million for their Irish frontman, 26.

Long has one year left on his current deal - but will stay at West Brom if his wages are brought in line with the club's top earners - Ben Foster, Jonas Olsson, Chris Brunt and Peter Odemwingie - who all pocket more than £30,000 a week.

Long, who currently earns £20,000 a week, knows he can double his money if he leaves, with Seville, Lazio and Everton also monitoring his situation.

A source close to the player said: "Shane is more than happy as he gets time on the pitch.

"But does he want to be at a big club just to have the experience of being there? Or does he want to play every week? He wants the latter."