Albion are interested in sought-after Portsmouth central defender Matt Clarke.

They have been monitoring the 22-year-old for a while, The Argus understands.

No move has been made yet but that could change as new head coach Graham Potter looks at revitalising the squad.

Potter watched Portsmouth's League One play-off semi-final against Sunderland before leaving Swansea and succeeding the sacked Chris Hughton as Albion boss.

Stoke, managed by former Albion player and assistant Nathan Jones, are also keen on Clarke.

Watford, Leeds, Hull and Reading have also been touted, according to the Portsmouth News.

Albion have also retained an interest in Newcastle's want-away Isaac Hayden (below), The Argus can confirm, although he is not their top choice for midfield strengthening.

The Argus: Hayden was on Albion's radar under Hughton when they signed Yves Bissouma last summer.

The ex-England under-21 international from Essex has reiterated his desire to return south for family reasons.