Albion manager Mark McGhee stepped up his search for a new keeper today after learning he is likely to be without Michel Kuipers for the rest of the season.

The bleak bulletin on the shoulder damage sustained by the Seagulls' No.1 is expected to be confirmed by a specialist on Friday.

Albion originally feared Kuipers would be out for six weeks after the Dutchman hurt his left shoulder in a collision with Nottingham Forest's Kris Commons near the end of last Saturday's goalless draw.

The results of a scan on the injury yesterday revealed Kuipers, 30, will probably need an operation, strengthening McGhee's desire to sign an experienced replacement.

"It's a bad injury," McGhee said. "He has torn the muscle away from the bone. It looks as if he will require surgery and he will have a further examination with a specialist on Friday.

"At the moment it looks as if he will miss the rest of the season."

Chris May, who made his debut in place of Kuipers for the last few minutes against Forest, is regarded by McGhee as too inexperienced to start at Leeds on Saturday.

Last season's first choice Ben Roberts will not be fit until April following long-term back trouble.

Leeds, currently three points and seven places above Albion in the Championship, visit play-off contenders Derby County tonight.

McGhee is getting closer to re-signing former loan striker Mark McCammon from Millwall on a permanent basis.

Millwall are prepared to let McCammon leave but he still has to agree personal terms.