Albion are on the brink of signing versatile Nigerian international defender Leon Balogun.

The Argus understands the Seagulls are very close to adding the 29-year-old to their Premier League ranks on a free transfer from German Bundesliga club Mainz.

Albion have moved early in the summer transfer window to bolster their defensive options following Uwe Huenemeier's return to Germany with Paderborn and interest from Glasgow Rangers in Connor Goldson.

They are poised to see off competition from Huddersfield for Balogun, who can play in the centre of defence or at full-back.

He made 15 appearances in all competitions for Mainz this season as they staved off relegation.

Balogun's contribution in the latter part of the campaign was restricted by a rib injury, which he has now recovered from as he heads to the World Cup finals with Nigeria in Russia next month.

Balogun, capped 16 times by the Super Eagles, could feature in their friendly against England at Wembley on June 2.

He previously had spells with Turkiyemspor, Hannover 96, Werder Bremen, Fortuna Dusseldorf and Darmstadt 98.