ALBION boss Chris Hughton says he will tweak his squad in January after backing from chairman Tony Bloom to strengthen his promotion challengers.

Argentinian Jonathan Calleri remains high on the Seagulls' list of striker targets. They also need to sign a winger to replace Solly March, ruled out for the rest of the season by knee ligament damage, and remain down on numbers at left-back with Gaetan Bong and Liam Rosenior among the long-term casualties.

Hughton has not ruled out extra central midfield cover for key pair Dale Stephens and Beram Kayal either, although he is satisfied with the back-up options in that area.

Bloom has vowed to "strengthen from a position of strength", with Albion still unbeaten and adrift of tomorrow's visitors Middlesbrough at the top of the Championship table only on goal difference.

Hughton said: "I think it's what we want to hear. It's also about bringing in what we need. We have got a very competitive squad and I don't think we have to add too much.

"We certainly have to protect ourselves. There have been a couple of areas where we have been vulnerable and we've had five players out injured.

"It's more that as opposed to feeling we need to bring in better quality in positions. It's going to be a question of tweaking things as opposed to wholesale."

Albion have not had any contact yet with Wolves over loan signing Rajiv van La Parra, a potential replacement for March once his stint at the Amex ends on December 29.

Richie Towell, signed from Dundalk, will be en extra midfield option from January. Hughton told The Argus: "He could be a player that comes in and hits the ground on the back of a very good season in Ireland. Of course, we know the levels are different but he'll maybe surprise a few.

"Certainly numbers wise and with a very good, experienced player back in Crofty (Andrew Crofts) we are okay. It's the same as every position, we'll assess all possibilities. We have good numbers with Incey (Rohan Ince) as well and Jake (Forster) Caskey."

March had surgery yesterday to repair the ruptured anterior cruciate ligament he suffered to his right knee at Derby last Saturday. Albion are hoping he will be back for the start of next season.