Albion's January transfer business ended in a whimper last night as the club emphasised their commitment to complying with Financial Fair Play rules.

The Seagulls made one low cost signing on the final day of trading – former Celta Vigo striker David Rodriguez on a free transfer for the rest of the season.

The arrival of Rodriguez coincided with two-time player of the year Liam Bridcutt finally completing his long-awaited move to Sunderland for a reported £2.5 million.

Albion are intent on meeting FFP regulations which allow for losses of no more than £3 million this season, or up to £8 million if owner Tony Bloom can cover the £5 million shortfall.

The Seagulls were more than £8 million in the red in their first season at The Amex in 2011-12. Another hefty deficit is anticipated for last season, when Albion reached the Championship play-offs. Head coach Oscar Garcia was hoping for more signings to add to the captures of Charlton midfielder Dale Stephens on Thursday and striker Jonathan Obika on loan from Spurs earlier in the month.

He was left disappointed after losing Bridcutt to Sunderland, Ashley Barnes to Burnley and Adam El-Abd to Bristol City in January, as well as key midfielder Andrew Crofts for the rest of the season through injury.

Oscar, speaking yesterday morning, said: “I hope to have a busy day” and added: “The club knows all the positions I want to strengthen.”

One consolation for the Spaniard as he tries to keep Albion in the play-off hunt is that Will Buckley has stayed put, although he is still not fit for tomorrow’s trip to former club Watford.

The right-winger, targeted by Sunderland and Crystal Palace, has not played this year due to more hamstring trouble.

Albion will reassess their squad options once the loan transfer window opens later this month.