BERAM KAYAL has reiterated his commitment to Albion as talks continue with the club over a new contract.

The influential Israeli central midfielder is out of contract next summer. Negotations with the Seagulls over a new deal are ongoing and, The Argus understands, unlikely to be finalised until after the transfer window shuts next week.

Kayal told The Argus: “I’m still here, I have one year left on my contract, I respect that. I’m enjoying it here.

“I’m so happy about the things I get from the club and the fans.

“You never know where you are going to be in football but at this moment I’m here and so happy and proud to play for this team.”

Albion have turned down multi-million pound offers this summer from tomorrow’s hosts Newcastle United for winger Anthony Knockaert, from Crystal Palace for centre-half Lewis Dunk and from Burnley for Kayal’s midfield partner Dale Stephens.

“Those three are still with us and I’m happy about that,” Kayal said. “They are a big part of this club. They’ve done very well for us.

“I’m happy for them to be staying here but I’m happy for them as well if they are looking forward to going to the next level or different league.”

Boss Chris Hughton is non-committal about whether Stephens will be back in the squad at Newcastle after missing the last two matches to catch up on a fitness gap caused by a pre-season injury.

“He is available,” Hughton said. “I’ve got to make a decision on that one.”