Albion last night remained in the running to sign Aaron Mooy – as his suitors were told he is prime for a Premier League challenge.

Sources in Australia believe as many as seven top-flight clubs, including all three who went up last season, are willing to meet Manchester City’s asking price for the midfielder.

The Argus understands Mooy remains of keen interest to the Seagulls and has yet to pledge his future to a new club.

It is also understood City have not committed to any deal.

Huddersfield were reported to have agreed a fee of an initial £8 million with City but the battle for his signature was last night continuing – with Albion in the thick of it.

Mooy is currently in Russia with the Socceroos for the Confederations Cup.

Huddersfield are hoping bonds forged last season, when he led them up via the play-offs, will persuade him to return.

Former Aussie star Harry Kewell says Mooy has answered doubters back home with his promotion feats.

Kewell, now manager at Crawley Town, told The Argus: “Aaron Mooy has been excellent this year.

“Everyone knew what a great player he was in Australia but we always questioned whether we could do it in Europe. I wouldn’t say he was strolling in our A-League but coming over here to Huddersfield, which is tough, and for him to go out and mix it in one of the hardest leagues in the world, the Championship, and to get his team promoted, I think he has done an exceptional job.

“He continued that the other day when Australia played Saudi Arabia. He was instrumental in the win.

“You can see the difference in him now.

“He is starting to grow but it is going to be a tough year for him.”

Albion chief executive Paul Barber has previously stressed the need for cool heads and patience among staff and fans alike in the quest for reinforcements ahead of the Premier League season.

He said: “We are one of 20 clubs searching for players in, when it comes to Premier League football, a relatively small pond.

“There is going to be competition.”