Brighton Bears believe they can fight off a challenge from European giants Real Madrid and complete the signing of new coach Nick Nurse.

Bears expect to confirm the appointment within the next two days, despite an invitation from Madrid's Italian head coach Sergio Scariolo for Nurse to join his staff in Spain.

The Argus revealed almost two weeks ago that Nurse, who topped the southern conference with London Towers last season, was poised to take charge on the south coast, subject to the granting of a work permit.

News of Madrid's interest in the Iowa-born coach sparked fears among fans that the move may not go ahead.

Club owner Romek Kriwald has moved to allay those concerns. He said: "There are no hitches. We are just waiting for a work permit to come through.

"There was an offer made to Nick by Real Madrid which he did not dismiss out of hand because of the stature of the club and the deal on the table.

"It was an exceptional offer and there was a discussion but I expect him to come to Brighton."

Madrid start their season away to Caceres on Saturday, September 29, the same day as Brighton kick-off what they hope will be their season of resurgence as they visit a Leicester Riders side bolstered by the signing of former Bears favourite Jon Gaines.

Pre-season training is due to start for Brighton next week. Hence Kriwald's urgency to get Nurse signed up and a squad of players in place.

Player-of-the year Wilbur Johnson has admitted he is excited about the new season will fly back from Philadelphia with his family some time next week.

Michael Brown, who met Nurse at a recent Bears friendly against touring American students, is the only other player confirmed for the new campaign at present.

Nurse is believed to be investing in the Sussex club and talked to fans at the recent friendly of his ambitions to get back into European competition.

Kriwald has yet to announce details of the package which he hopes will prove more attractive than a move to the Spanish capital but he declared: "The opportunity here for Nick is very significant.

"There is an awful lot that can be achieved here. I am confident when the dust has settled things will work out in our favour but we must wait until the ink has dried."

Kriwald has already fulfilled one of his aims for Bears by transferring their head office from West Sussex to the Brighton area. He is now conducting club business from an office in Falmer.

Conference outfit Worthing Thunder are also set to announce their squad in the next few days.

They kick-off their pre-season programme at home to Thames Valley Tigers next Thursday, September 6 (7.30), and will arrange a return match some time the following week.

The serious stuff kicks off at home to Solent in the Trophy on September 15.