Sheffield United will resist any Albion attempt to snap up a prized asset – despite splashing out on a new centre-back.

The Seagulls are interested in Blades defender Jack O’Connell, who is rated at around £6 million.

O’Connell is likely to be one of a handful of defenders, including Liam Moore at Reading, being eyed by Albion as they bid to complete their Premier League squad

Chris Hughton is keen to add a fourth centre-back to compete with Shane Duffy, Lewis Dunk and Leon Balogun.

United yesterday spent a club record £4 million on Brentford centre-back John Egan.

But he is being seen at Bramall Lane as a partner for O’Connell rather than a replacement.

Albion have brought in goalkeeper David Button and midfielder Yves Bissouma this week, leaving a centre-back and possibly a striker as priorities.

O’Connell, 24, is regarded as an excellent all-round central defender who can play on either side and comfortably bring the ball out of defence.

He helped Blades to promotion from League One two seasons ago and was ever-present in the Championship last term.

Boss Chris Wilder is in no rush to see him go.

Albion's next piece of business is expected to be the arrival of South African forward Percy Tau from Mamelodi Sundowns, although he is not likely to be part of their Premier League squad.

Meanwhile Rohan Ince, the midfielder Albion let go this summer, is training with Charlton in a bid to secure a deal.