Albion chief Steve Coppell will re-sign Steve Hunt from his old club Brentford, providing he can get him on a free transfer or for a 'minimal' fee.

The Argus revealed last week that Hunt is poised to become Coppell's first signing of the summer on a two-year contract.

The former Republic of Ireland under-21 winger said he is "80 per cent certain" to sign for the Seagulls but the deal hinges on Bees' asking price.

Coppell, Hunt's manager at Brentford and Crystal Palace, said: "To be honest I'm fairly indifferent about it. If it happens it happens.

"He's not someone I've really set my heart on, I just think he would be an addition to the squad. I was led to believe he was going to be a free transfer. As a free transfer I would take him, as simple as that.

"Now I have got to speak to Wally Downes (Brentford manager) and if we can do something which isn't going to cost the club money then I'll do it.

"I am not looking to pay a fee but if it's minimal I wouldn't mind. That is to be determined."

Coppell believes the versatile Hunt, on target ten times in 50 games for the Bees last season, would be a useful addition to the squad, particularly as Paul Brooker has left for Leicester.

"He's just a very gritty, determined character who, touch wood, will be fit to play 40-odd games for you a year.

"He doesn't stop. He has a go and at this level if there is somebody who can play in a variety of positions it seems like a decent thing to do. I know his personality and he would blend in fine."

Coppell has ruled out any chance of re-signing Hunt's former Brentford team-mate Ivar Ingimarsson from promoted Wolves.

The Icelandic international centre half impressed during an extended loan spell with the Seagulls towards the end of last season.

He is still under contract at Molineux but is not thought to be in the Premiership plans of manager Dave Jones.

"I would love to sign Ivar, but at the very worst he is looking at the First Division," Coppell said. "He has done the Second Division and we've got no chance.

"I know there are three or four First Division clubs who would love to sign him and I know he is desperate to prove himself at Wolves, so he might just take the gamble and give it three months to make an impact and become a Premiership player.

"If by October he isn't then I think he will make decisions elsewhere, but we wouldn't be part of that equation. I think he would phone me for advice, but he wouldn't come here."

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