The out-of-contract wide man, who has offers from a host of Premier League clubs including Albion and Villa, is reported to be asking for a massive £16m over a four-year contract.

Sako is hawking himself around but his representatives are thought to be using the huge £80,000-a-week as a starting point for negotiations.

The agents of the Mali international were sent packing last month by the Baggies and Villa, after it emerged they were seeking £50,000 to £60,000-a-week for their client.

Sako, who scored 36 goals in 118 league games for Wolves, is available on a Bosman free transfer when his deal runs out on June 30 and has his heart set on a move to the Premier League.

With no transfer fee, the former St Etienne man will pick up a hefty signing-on fee but is believed to be seeking huge wages as well.

It's double that of Albion's top earner Joleon Lescott, who is believed to be on £40,000-a-week.