Albion are closing in on the capture of Blackburn Rovers centre-half Shane Duffy.

The Argus understands they are edging nearer to completing a deal, although there is still work to be done today.

A club record fee in the region of £4 million has reportedly been agreed with Rovers for the Republic of Ireland international.

Albion are treading cautiously until Duffy has agreed personal terms, passed a medical and the paperwork has been completed.

Norwich hijacked a deal for attacking midfielder Alex Pritchard from Spurs after a fee had been agreed by the clubs and the player had agreed to the move.

Albion had two bids for Duffy rejected earlier in the summer.

Landing him will restore the Seagulls to four established central defenders alongside Lewis Dunk, fit-again Uwe Huenemeier and Connor Goldson, who could make his comeback from injury next week in the Football League Trophy.

They have been seeking another centre-half since releasing skipper Gordon Greer at the end of last season.

Greer, ironically, has subsequently rejoined Blackburn.

Albion are still keen to add a No.10 to their striking options before the transfer window closes on Wednesday.