Albion will host Nantes at the Amex ahead of the new campaign – after Sporting Club pulled out of their pre-season date.

The Lisbon outfit were unwilling to travel after a summer of upheaval behind the scenes.

Albion have moved quickly to bring in strong opponents who finished ninth in France last season.

Tickets bought for the Sporting game will be valid for the new fixture.

Albion boss Chris Hughton said: “Firstly, we are extremely grateful to FC Nantes for coming over to play us at such short notice.

“It was important for us to have top-level opponents in our final warm-up match ahead of the new season, and we are delighted FC Nantes have stepped in to play the match in two weeks’ time.

“They’ll represent just as tough a test, if not tougher, and from a footballing point of view the change of opponents will not affect our preparations for the new season.”

Albion had signed a contract with Sporting but were aware last week of a report they were unwilling to come.

Chief executive Paul Barber added: “It’s disappointing to have to rearrange the match at such short notice, but, with several changes in senior level personnel, coaching staff and players in the past few weeks, Sporting now wish to play at home over the weekend of 3-5 August, and so we are very grateful to FC Nantes for rearranging their own plans and for stepping in to take Sporting’s place.

“Tickets already purchased will still be valid, and prices will remain the same, but any supporters who wish to apply for a refund due to the change of opposition can contact supporter services, who’ll process their claim up until 5pm on 26th July.”

Ticket holders wishing to apply for a refund must do so no later than 5pm on Thursday.

They should email supporter.services@bhafc.co.uk, sending the original confirmation email along with a request for a refund, or call 0844 327 1901.