ALBION are interested in Sammy Ameobi.

But they may have to settle for trying to land the versatile Newcastle United striker on loan.

Former Newcastle boss Chris Hughton is eager to add better attacking options to his Albion squad.

Ameobi’s future in the North East is uncertain. The lanky 23-year-old, who can play wide or through the middle, has been offered a new deal but it is unclear whether he has signed it or to what extent he figures in the plans of Steve McClaren, who has replaced John Carver as manager.

Ameobi reportedly wants regular first team football to improve his international ambitions with Nigeria after representing England under-21s and switching allegiances last year.

That is more likely to happen in the Championship than at St James’ Park or with West Brom or Everton, who are said to be interested.

The Seagulls are likely to face Championship competition from Wolves and relegated Burnley, who are also admirers.

Academy product Ameobi has played 76 games for Newcastle, 36 of them starts, since Hughton’s successor Alan Pardew handed him his debut in May 2011.

The unpredictable younger brother of former Newcastle forward Shola Ameobi has been loaned out before, to North East neighbours Middlesbrough in February 2013.

Albion’s only signing so far this summer has been winger Joe Ward from Chelmsford for the under-21s.

They have yet to add to the first team squad, although that is set to change with Hughton back today from holiday.

The official opening of the transfer window is nine days away and the Seagulls head for the French Alps four days later for a pre-season training camp.

An unconfirmed report has linked them again with Sheffield United winger Jamie Murphy, as well as Watford defender Daniel Pudil and Scotland international striker Johnny Russell from McClaren’s ex-club Derby County.