Albion goalkeeper Christian Walton has signed a new four-year contract on the verge of another loan move.

Wigan are favourites to pip Portsmouth to the capture of the 21-year-old giant, who is now tied to the Seagulls until 2021.

Walton had just entered the final year of his previous deal.

The Argus revealed last month Albion's plan to send him back out on loan once a new contract had been finalised.

Manager Chris Hughton said: "We are delighted Christian has committed long term to the club, as he has a very bright future ahead.

"He had two very good loan spells with Luton Town and Southend United last season, which really benefitted his ongoing development.

"Christian will also go out on loan again this season, as he is at a stage in his career where he needs to be playing regular football to continue the excellent progress he has made."

Walton has accumulated 50 senior appearances in loan spells two seasons ago with Bury and home town club Plymouth Argyle, then at Luton and Southend.

He played four games for Albion three seasons ago, three of them during the ill-fated reign of Sami Hyypia and one at the end of the 2014-15 campaign under Hughton.

He has also represented England from under 19 to under-21 level.

The Seagulls remain committed to signing a third, more seasoned goalkeeper for the Premier League as back-up to new club record capture Maty Ryan and Niki Maenpaa following the departure of David Stockdale to Birmingham.