Albion look to have finally landed long-time striker target Billy Paynter from Leeds.

The 27-year-old former Swindon marksman is understood to be on the verge of joining the Seagulls on loan until January.

Albion tried to buy Paynter in August but could not agree a fee with Leeds.

The Yorkshiremen had been reluctant to let him move to another Championship rival.

Albion boss Gus Poyet confirmed his continuing interest in Paynter in last Saturday's Argus.

He took a swipe at his old club for digging their heels in, saying: "It was an option in the summer, it was an option a month ago. He is still not in the squad but it looks like we cannot get him.

"Maybe Leeds think we are a team that are going to be fighting for the same place. That's a funny one."

Meanwhile, injury-hit Will Hoskins is unlikely to be available at Birmingham on Saturday after making his full debut at Millwall last week and a second half appearance as a sub in Monday's 1-0 home defeat by West Ham.

The striker, who has been plagued by a hip problem, tweeted: "Strained my thigh against the Hammers. Nothing major."