Graham Potter says it would make no sense to let Glenn Murray join a Premier League rival.

The Albion head coach hopes his senior striker stays at the club for the rest of the season.

He said he doubts Championship outfit Nottingham Forest, who are interested in Murray, would be able to get a deal over the line.

And he would have misgivings about him joining a team close to the Seagulls in the table.

Aston Villa have been linked with Murray after losing Wesley through injury for the rest of the season.

But tomorrow’s opponents now look to set to bring in Genk frontman Mbwana Samatta, albeit not in time to play at the Amex.

The Argus have been told Albion have not totally ruled out letting Murray join a Prem rival if he really wanted to but would be “pragmatic” – which could mean demanding a fee.

Potter was non-committal when asked by The Argus last week whether he would object to Murray joining a rival, saying he had not thought about it.

But he sent out a stronger message at his press conference yesterday.

He said: “It doesn’t make sense to help the opposition.

“You never know in football, of course, but Glenn was a sub for us and came on at Everton last week, so clearly he’s someone we think can help us.

“It doesn’t make too much sense to help someone we are competing against.

“Glenn is with us, I worked with him this morning and have no problems with him whatsoever. I’m happy for him to be with us. I enjoy working with him and I hope he stays.”

Potter declined to comment on a report that Forest were in talks with Murray.

But, when asked “It’s not one you could see that works for all parties?”, the Albion boss replied: “I doubt it.”

Aaron Mooy is fit to face Villa after a knee injury while Steven Alzate and Pascal Gross are strong contenders to start.