The Norwegian international had already slipped down the pecking order at Villa before Bent’s arrival.

Di Matteo confirmed: “They (Villa) know of our interest (in Carew).

“But obviously it has been a bit hectic there the last couple of days (with the Bent signing).

“We have a few other options as well that we are pushing forward with.”

Carew has been Villa’s leading scorer for the past three seasons and is out of contract in the summer.

Meanwhile, Baggies striker Ishmael Miller may be allowed to go out on loan for the remainder of the season to gain match sharpness.

Championship leaders QPR are understood to be interested in signing the former Manchester City player.

Miller has been plagued by injury problems for the past two years and only just returned to training after his latest niggle.

Di Matteo said: “We are deciding on that one. If if happens, it will be for the rest of the season.

“Ishmael needs to be able to play week in and week out to reach his full potential and gain match fitness.

“But, to an extent, it will depend on us bringing someone else in first.”