The Norway international, who is out of contract in the summer, has slipped down the pecking order under Gerard Houllier. Di Matteo said: "I think we've been linked with a number of players because we said we were looking for a striker - like the whole country! "Carew is one we've looked at but we're not sure about the availability of the player at the moment. "We're looking for a player that has some kind of proven record. They don't come in masses and it's difficult because so many clubs are after a striker. "We'll need to be patient and a lot of clubs will have to wait to see what the movements are of players." Carew has been Villa's leading scorer for the past three seasons and netted 17 goals during the 2009-2010 campaign. Baggies boss Roberto Di Matteo is looking to bring in new blood up front after a recent goal drought - and Carew fits the bill. He has been Villa's leading marksman for the past three seasons including 17 during the 2009-2010 campaign. But the Norwegian international, who is out of contract in the summer, has slipped down the pecking order this season and struggled for form. He was also involved in a public spat with Houllier over being challenged to win a new contract, although this was played down by both parties. Initial negotiations have taken place although Albion stress Carew is only one of several potential targets. They were interested in taking Manchester United's Federico Macheda on loan before he opted for a temporary move to Sampdoria. West Brom have managed to find the net only three times in the past five matches and slid close to the relegation zone. It has coincided with a mini goal drought from top scorer Peter Odemwingie who has not netted since December 5.
