Rami Shaaban revealed today he could swap the Champions League with Arsenal for the Championship with Albion.

The Swedish-Egyptian goalkeeper steps up a fortnight's trial with the Seagulls next week by joining squad training sessions.

Shaaban, a free agent, has not ruled out the possibility of signing for the Seagulls.

Albion No. 1 Michel Kuipers is out until next season after shoulder surgery, while former first choice Ben Roberts is still recovering from back trouble.

David Yelldell was signed on a month's loan from Blackburn a fortnight ago but manager Mark McGhee told The Argus this week he is assessing his options for the rest of the season.

Shaaban, 29, said: "I have trained here this week. I like John Keeley, the goalkeeping coach, a lot. He's helped me out and I am trying to help him out with my experience.

"Hopefully next week I will try to train with the team. I didn't want to rush into things, because I haven't played for a while.

"That wouldn't be good for me and I don't think it would be good for the club either. If I was 20 that would be different, but I am experienced.

"I have played in the Champions League and I know what it is all about, so I think it is the right decision to see how it goes next week when I join in.

"For me it's all about getting games. I think I would get them if I signed for Brighton, but it is up to the club as well and what they come up with and where they want to go.

"I think they have to improve quite a lot when it comes to the stadium and training ground, so it's a big culture shock but if you leave Arsenal where ever you go will be a step down. I am well prepared mentally for that."

Shaaban made three Premiership appearances for Arsenal in 2002-03, including his debut in the North London derby at home to Spurs and at Manchester United.

He kept a clean sheet in a Champions League draw against PSV Eindhoven at Highbury, then featured in a victory in the second group stage in Roma before a broken leg sustained in a training ground accident destroyed his Arsenal career.

Shaaban is still ambitious after missing out on a move to Spurs. "I want to go to a club that wins things," he said. "Of course, that would take time at Brighton, I am well aware of that, but everything has its price. I don't mean my price but everything needed to get to the Premier League.

"They are doing well this season, so you never know and I admire the gaffer for still doing so well despite all the other issues. I think he is the right man to take them up, but you don't do it in a day.

"It is everyone's dream to play in the Champions League and I want to do it again one day. If I join Brighton it would be a stepping stone for me.

"I had some offers from bigger clubs than Brighton that I rejected for family reasons. I am just happy to be here and training. Hopefully for both parties it will work out fine.

"I have a wife and child and they have been looking around Brighton. It is important that they are happy here to.

"So far so good, but in football things can change very quickly. Something could turn up tomorrow so I don't want to say I would definitely sign 100 per cent. I don't want to upset anyone."