Albion are poised to bolster their depleted defence by signing the experienced Jason Dodd.

The Seagulls are expected to land the former Southampton skipper on a free transfer.

Manager Mark McGhee sees Dodd as the man to cover two holes following the departure of Dan Harding and long-term injury suffered by fellow England under-21 international Adam Hinshelwood.

Leftback Harding is joining Leeds on Friday for a fee to be decided by a tribunal, while centre half Hinshelwood will miss the first part of Albion's Championship campaign with a serious knee injury.

Dodd, 34, can play in either of the fullback roles or in the centre of defence.

His versatility would allow McGhee to juggle his resources around Guy Butters, Adam Virgo, Kerry Mayo and Paul Reid.

Albion were interested in borrowing Dodd towards the end of last season when Hinshelwood was injured, but Plymouth landed him instead.

The Bath-born stopper made four appearances on loan to Argyle in April.

He was released by Southampton at the end of the season after more than 16 years service and 399 League appearances, the vast majority in the Premiership.

Signing Dodd will be the first stage of McGhee's squad strengthening. Albion have targeted a young English striker with the £250,000 won for them by fan Aaron Berry in a competition run by Football League sponsors Coca-Cola.

The Seagulls' home game against arch rivals Crystal Palace has been put back 24 hours to Sunday, November 20 (1.30) for live coverage on Sky, earning the club £60,000.

Albion's home match against Hull has been brought forward to Friday, December 16, in line with the Withdean playing regulations while the Boxing Day visit by QPR is now a 1pm kick-off.