Albion are preparing to detail the cost of a promotion push – by confirming losses of about £20 million for last season.

But they have stressed fans have a vital part to play in helping improve the financial picture and roar their side towards the top flight.

The Seagulls expect to announce a second successive Amex sell-out ahead of Friday’s home clash against Aston Villa.

A win would see them move eight points clear of third place in the Championship, at least for a few hours.

They are also preparing to announce detailed financial results for the near-miss 2015-16 campaign and will cite their determination to hang on to key players as a big part of these figures.

Chairman Tony Bloom revealed the likely £20 million shortfall for last term at a fans’ forum while answering a question about ticket prices for away fans.

It is almost double the deficit of the previous season, when seven-figure sales of Will Buckley and Leo Ulloa helped soften the financial blow of a campaign spent in the wrong half of the Championship table.

Albion made no such sales last term and instead invested in fees and wages for new players while resisting offers for stars such as Lewis Dunk.

The result has been arguably the best and most exciting Seagulls side in decades.

Their complete financial picture for 2015-16 will become clear early next month.

Chief executive Paul Barber told The Argus: “Tony’s loss estimation at the Bristol fans’ meeting was correct. It reflects the significant investment in our squad and also our decision to retain our best players.

“We can’t talk about the numbers specifically as they are still being audited, must be signed off by club’s board next week, and then filed with the League before any full public disclosure.”

The figures will underline Albion’s determination to reach the top tier.

Asked about the supporters’ role in that, Barber said: “It’s very important to recognise that we’re continuing to get wonderful support from our fans, both home and away.

“Of course from a financial point of view, as well as from a team point of view, this continues to be vitally important as we challenge for promotion.”