ALBION are weighing up an approach from Sussex neighbours Crawley to take goalkeeper Christian Walton on a season-long loan.

Crawley are one of a number of clubs to have enquired about the availability of the England under-20 international.

Walton made four appearances for the Seagulls last season but boss Chris Hughton is keen for the 19-year-old to gain more experience away from the Amex.

David Stockdale was Albion’s first choice keeper last season while the Seagulls are hoping to sign Finland international Niki Maenpaa.

Crawley are desperate to sign a goalkeeper following the release of veteran Brian Jensen at the end of last season and boss Mark Yates admits Walton is one option he is considering.

Yates said: “Christian is definitely on my radar but whether we can get him or not is yet to be seen. It would be stupid not to recognise he is a talent and is right on our doorstep but there are a lot of factors to consider.

“We have made contact with the relevant people at Brighton so they know of our interest but I would have thought there will be other clubs in for him as well.”

Albion would ideally like Walton to join a club in League One but the proximity of Crawley could work in their favour as it could allow the former Plymouth stopper to continue training with the Seagulls.

Yates added: “The two clubs are so close who knows but that is something that hasn’t been discussed yet.

“Loans normally don’t happen until a bit later but we would like a goalkeeper to be in place by the start of pre-season so hopefully we’ll know a bit more in a week or two.”