Albion manager Mark McGhee has not given up hope of signing Paul McShane permanently.

McGhee believes the Seagulls could still land the on-loan Manchester United centre half, irrespective of what division they are playing in next season.

Albion extended his loan in January for the rest of the campaign and McGhee said: "He won't necessarily be going back to Manchester United. I know we still have ambitions to keep him.

"He is part of a nice group of young players and we are going to need 20, not 14."

McShane has been an inspirational figure in the fight for Championship survival since his temporary move from Old Trafford at the start of the season.

He revealed to The Argus on Saturday that he has been playing with a hernia throughout his time with the Seagulls and is putting off surgery until the summer.

McGhee, impressed by both McShane's performances and attitude, does not think relegation to League One would dash Albion's chances of persuading the 20-year-old Republic of Ireland prospect to stay for good.

"I think it will be important for him to be where he is wanted and where he can see a longer term future," McGhee said.

"The longer term future is that in three years' time there will be a new stadium. Regardless of the circumstances, I am still hoping he has seen enough to know this is a good place to be."

McShane is available for Saturday's visit by Preston after serving a two-match suspension.