Jose Izquierdo is on the brink of a record-breaking move to Albion.

But there is still one obstacle left before the Colombian winger's switch from Belgian club Brugge becomes official.

The Seagulls are attempting to secure a work permit today for the 25-year-old.

How does the system work, is there any danger of the deal collapsing and when might Izquierdo be ready for Premier League duty?

What is the state of play with the Izquierdo deal?

A club record fee of around £13.5 million has been agreed with Brugge, the player has agreed personal terms and he passed a medical at the weekend.

Does he have to attend the work permit hearing in person?

No. The system has changed since Albion last had to go through the process of acquiring what is officially know as a Governing Body Exemption (GBE) with Israeli midfielder Beram Kayal.

The human element has been removed to avoid cases being strengthened, or weakened, by the personalities of those involved.

A weak case on paper could be helped by a forceful personality presenting the argument, and vice-versa.

How does it work then?

The process differs in sport compared to say an IT worker or banker. The Government delegates responsibility to the relevant governing body, as they are better equipped to judge the merits or otherwise of the claim.

Hence in football the panel will typically comprise three experts experienced in the appropriate labour market, perhaps a lawyer, former manager and player.

How will Albion make their case?

They need to demonstrate that Izquierdo is the best value they could find in the market, with certain attribtutes unobtainable for the same price at home, by making comparisons with similar type players.

They also need to show his potential at international level and there is an economic argument as well - creating more interest from Colombia in the Premier League.

The paperwork has been submitted, together with video evidence and personal statements in support of his talent.

How is a decision reached?

Via a points scoring system, based on criteria such as the transfer fee, salary, international appearances and the impact made by the player for club and country.

If the points tally is not enough, the deal is dead.

If it is enough, then it's a done deal?

Not quite. The panel still has a right of veto, so nothing can be taken for granted.

What happens if Albion get the green light?

They are likely to hear the panel's decision by the end of the day.

If they are successful, Izquierdo (below) The Argus: then has to leave the country and go back to Belgium or, in his case, Paris (where the British Embassy issues visas).

On presentation of the GBE, he will be granted a visa for the duration of his contract.

He can then return to England and is available to work.

Could he be involved at Leicester on Saturday?

Unlikely, due to the logistics outlined above and also for football reasons.

Izquierdo has not been able to train with the rest of the squad while a work permit is pending. He has been training alone at a secret location, so will be unfamiliar with patterns of play, team shape and set piece drills for the Leicester game.

The club also cannot pay him or involve him in any promotional activities until securing the work permit.

That is why he was not presented on the pitch before Saturday's opening game against Manchester City.

So when might fans get a first look at the record signing?

That depends on manager Chris Hughton. He could be thrown straight in at Watford on Saturday week, or given a gentler introduction against Barnet in the second round of the Carabao Cup at the Amex next Tuesday.

Alternatively, considering the complications arising from the work permit process, Hughton may decide to give him more time to settle and hand him his first start in the first game after the international break at home to West Brom on September 9.