Albion have earmarked Nzuzi Toko as their midfielder enforcer.

And that could mean a revised role for Rohan Ince.

Albion signed Toko in May on a free transfer from Swiss side Grasshopper Zurich, prior to Sami Hyypia's appointment as manager, after he attracted the attention of the recuitment department a year ago.

The Seagulls' only summer signing so far can operate anywhere in midfield but The Argus understands he is likely to be used just in front of the back four, where Liam Bridcutt patrolled before his move to Sunderland.

Loan signing Keith Andrews and Rohan Ince were deployed in that position last season by Oscar Garcia when Bridcutt was injured.

The capture of Toko gives Hyypia scope to play Ince in another midfield berth or revert him to his former role as a central defender.

The multi-lingual Toko has already impressed his new team-mates with his strength and speed as Albion began pre-season training under Hyypia this week at their new £30 million training complex in Lancing.

The 23-year-old has settled in quickly, establishing an instant rapport with winger and fellow countryman Kazenga LuaLua.

The pair were born in Kinshasha, capital of Congo, within ten days of each other before leaving for Europe at an early age with their families.