Gus Poyet is confident of welcoming Kazenga LuaLua back to Withdean.

But the Albion boss could have to wait until at least next week before securing the Newcastle winger for his second loan stint in Sussex.

Withdean regulars get their first look at Poyet’s new-look outfit when Mark McGhee brings his Aberdeen side south for a friendly tomorrow (3pm).

It is likely to be up to four signings short of the squad the Uruguayan plans to take into League One action.

LuaLua was a big hit during a stint with the Seagulls last term. He has been a target for Poyet ever since and is known to be keen to return in time for the season opener at Swindon.

Albion have ended their interest in former Millwall winger Filipe Morais, whose arrival on trial coincided with indications they were losing patience with Newcastle.

However, asked yesterday about the chances of bringing LuaLua back, the Albion boss said: “Better. I won’t say it’s close until it’s done but we are getting there. We have got a chance now. I’m confident. I was confident all the time.

“The problem is when you set up a pre-season we want as many players as possible as early as possible. We are one week from the start so of course, if you cannot get him early, you get him any time.

“Maybe we could have one (signing) today, tomorrow. If not, next week. If not, the first three or four games. Until the end of August we have got a chance so we are working on it.”

Poyet has already secured Ashley Barnes, Peter Brezovan, Marcos Painter and Inigo Calderon on longer term contracts after they shone on loan or short deals last season.

LuaLua’s return would be on a more temporary basis.

Poyet said: “It looks like it could be a loan more than anything. A season’s loan would be perfect."

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