Albion are interested in Wigan forward and former Manchester United prospect Nick Powell.

But The Argus understands a deal is unlikely to happen in the current transfer window, which shuts at 11pm tonight.

The Seagulls are believed to have made a bid last night for the 23-year-old and further offers today.

A takeover of Wigan by new Chinese owners is making it difficult to complete a deal before the deadline.

Crystal Palace and Swansea are also reportedly interested in Powell, who made nine appearances for United after joining them from Crewe for around £4 million in the summer of 2012.

He moved to Wigan two summers ago following a loan spell at the DW Stadium and temporary stints at Leicester and Hull.

Powell, often used as a deep-lying attacker, has scored 11 times for the League One leaders this season.

Albion have added to their strike force in January with the record signing of Jurgen Locadia and the return of Leo Ulloa.

They have lost summer loan capture Izzy Brown from Chelsea to a knee injury.