Albion face competition for League of Ireland star Richie Towell.

Other English clubs are understood to also be circling the free-scoring attacking midfielder with double winners Dundalk, who has been to the Amex for talks.

The 24-year-old ex-Celtic youth scored 25 goals in the season just ended as Dundalk retained the League title.

Albion boss Chris Hughton, speaking to Irish radio station Newstalk, said: "He's had a wonderful season and I certainly would be aware of him because of where he's played but we're conscious that lots of other clubs are also aware of him. I think he's done very, very well for himself.

"If you have a good enough individual that's done well enough, there's every chance they can excel in another league."

Towell, about to become a dad, has turned down offers from Turkey and Poland. There is also interest in the US and Canada and he wants regular first team football in an attempt to force his way into Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill's squad for the Euro finals in France next summer.

Dubliner Towell, named the Irish PFA's player of the year at the weekend, told the Irish Independent: "They (Albion) are a good club that has good pedigree and has a lovely stadium and things like that.

"Playing football is very important to me as well. I just have to weigh everything up. The manager, no matter what team it's at, will have his team and players but I don't think he'll be bringing me in to play reserve football.

"I'm 24 now and I'd like to imagine that I'll be in contention after a few games in the reserves to get my sharpness."