ALBION have been forced into a frantic finale to the January transfer window after missing out on another target.

Versatile Irishman Shaun Williams has chosen Championship rivals Millwall rather than the Seagulls.

The 27-year-old, who can play in the centre of defence or midfield, has a medical today ahead of completing a £250,000 move to Ian Holloway's strugglers from League One side MK Dons.

Albion held talks with Williams on Saturday morning but Millwall had already laid their cards on the negotiating table and his mind was virtually made up.

The prospect of regular first team football is thought to have played a major part in Williams' decision, which was revealed by The Argus website on Saturday night.

It is the second time Albion have lost out on a target to a team in the bottom half of the Championship.

Lewis Grabban opted to re-sign for Bournemouth. He was top of the Seagulls' list to replace striker Ashley Barnes, who was sold to tomorrow night's hosts Burnley.

Albion need replacements for Barnes, Adam El-Abd following his move to Bristol City and the injured Andree Crofts to restore the status quo - notwithstanding the still lurking danger of losing Liam Bridcutt and Will Buckley to the Premier League.

Albion assistant Nathan Jones told The Argus: "I am expecting some activity and we'll be working hard in lots of ways in terms of the squad, keeping the quality and making sure that come Friday Brighton has a squad capable of challenging for promotion this year and also in the Cup."

Albion have dropped a place to eighth in the Championship after Ipswich edged above them on goal difference with a 2-0 home win over Reading.

They have been staying at the FA’s national football centre at St George’s Park in Burton since Friday to reduce travelling ahead of tomorrow night's trip to East Lancashire.

The FA Cup win at Port Vale means Albion will now face another midweek haul to Lancashire to face Burnley's neighbours Blackburn Rovers. The scheduled visit to Rovers on February 15 clashes with the fifth round.