Joe Dolan today insisted a permanent deal with Albion would be his No.1 choice.

The stopper has been given the chance by the Seagulls to return for pre-season training and prove his fitness.

Albion manager Mark McGhee wants to sign a central defender with Adam Hinshelwood out injured until Christmas and told The Argus last week that Dolan would be an option if fit enough.

Dolan admits he would go elsewhere if offered a full-time contract in the summer but says joining Albion full-time would be his preferred option.

The 24-year-old said: "The gaffer told me there wasn't a permanent deal but he also said he wants me to come back pre-season and prove myself.

"We've known each other for a long time because he was my manager at Millwall. He told me I have to get fitter. I agree.

"I would love to do that and earn a long-term contract. That would be perfect. I love it at Brighton.

"But I have to think of my security. My agent tells me there are a couple of League Two clubs interested and if either can offer me something I think I would have to take it.

"I got about 30 games in with Crawley, Stockport and Brighton last season, but I need 40 or 50 as season to get back to where I want to be."

Dolan, whose contract with Millwall ran out at the end of the season, said: "There are hundred of footballers like me who are in limbo. Money's tight."

He made three starts on loan from Millwall for the Seagulls in the successful struggle to stay in the Coca-Cola Championship.

The former Northern Ireland under-21 international lost his place as McGhee re-shuffled for the final four games.