Albion manager Peter Taylor has put an end to speculation about Bobby Zamora's immediate future, insisting he will stay for the rest of the season.

Taylor's pledge follows a report which claimed the record-breaking striker is joining Spurs next summer for £5 million.

The deal is already in place according to the Sunday Mirror, but has been kept under wraps because of a confidentiality agreement between both clubs.

Taylor, tiring of rumoured bids or an imminent move for his free-scoring star, described the story as an "absolute load of rubbish". He pledged: "There is no agreement between any club and us about Bobby Zamora. He will only be going at the right price at the right time. In my opinion it will not be this season, no way."

Taylor is satisfied with a home draw against Preston in the third round of the FA Cup on January 5.

It follows Saturday's 2-1 win against Rushden and Diamonds at Withdean, which Zamora launched by scoring for a club record ninth appearance in succession.

"I think it's a good one, because we are capable on our day of playing like a Division One team," Taylor said. "They are doing very well at the moment and I know their manager David Moyes very well.

"He is different class, one of the best around, so it will be very tough but it's not an impossible one for us and I am really pleased it's at home.

"It's nice for our supporters. We haven't been in the third round for nine years."

Preston, FA Cup winners in 1889 and 1938 and runners-up four times, missed out on a place in the Premiership last season when they lost to Bolton in the play-off final.

They are eighth in Division One after losing 3-2 to leaders and Lancastrian rivals Burnley at Deepdale yesterday.

Albion's home league game against Tranmere, scheduled for January 5, will now be rearranged.

New signing Daniel Webb starts training with the Seagulls today after completing his loan switch from Southend until the end of the season. Albion will then pay £25,000 to make the deal permanent.

Andy Crosby has now agreed personal terms with Oxford United and he is joining the Third Division strugglers today on a free transfer.