Albion are on the brink of finally landing a striker before the transfer window shuts at midnight.

Chairman Dick Knight has agreed a fee for an un-named forward he hopes to persuade to sign today.

Knight refuses to reveal the player's identity until the deal is completed, but The Argus understands the Seagulls are interested in Leyton Orient's Jabo Ibehre.

Albion have switched their attention to the free-scoring 23-year-old after a £150,000 bid for Congo international Tresor Kandol was rejected by Barnet.

They have also pulled out of the race with Blackpool to sign Ben Burgess, because the Hull front man, who is plagued by a knee problem, refuses to have a medical.

Ibehre joined Orient as a trainee in March 2000. The 6ft 2in Londoner has scored 25 goals in 82 league appearances and helped them to promotion from League Two last season.

Knight revealed: "I am in negotiations with two clubs about strikers, one of which I am optimistic will conclude before the deadline.

"I have actually agreed terms with another club, now it is a question of persuading the player and his agent.

"I made an offer for Kandol, then upped it to £150,000 but Barnet turned it down.

Knight added: "Burgess is ruled out because he will not come for a medical and I am not prepared to spend serious money without that."

Albion's interest in Kandol could still be revived as a result of the departure of Colin Kazim-Richards.

Knight also revealed plans for further squad strengthening. He said: "I am also working hard on a midfield player but that may have to be a loan which does not have a deadline."