Albion have awarded new, long-term contracts to defensive duo Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy, together with star winger Anthony Knockaert.

Dunk and Knockaert have signed five-year contracts until June 2022, Duffy four years.

Boss Chris Hughton said: "Lewis, Shane and Anthony were key members of our promotion-winning side last season, and I fully expect them to be important members of the team once again this season.

"They're relishing the step up to the new level and they each have the capability to perform and excel in the Premier League - and they have certainly earned these new deals with their performances on the pitch.

"It's been a really straightforward process getting everything completed and I'm absolutely delighted that three key members of the squad have committed their futures."

Brighton-born Dunk, 25, will complete more than a decade of service as a professional with the club as a result of his new deal.

The Argus: He has forged a formidable partnership at the heart of the defence over the past year with Republic of Ireland international Duffy (above), who became Albion's record signing last August when they bought him from Blackburn Rovers for around £4 million.

The Seagulls have shattered that figure three times this summer with the captures of Mathew Ryan, Davy Propper and Jose Izquierdo.

Reigning Championship and Albion player of the season Knockaert (below) has scored 20 goals in 65 league games for the Seagulls since returning to England from Standard Liege 18 months ago.

The Argus: Albion visit Knockaert's old club Leicester on Saturday for their first away fixture in the Premier League.