Brighton close to signing Erlan Cashin

Brighton are close to completing the signing of centre-back Erlan Cashin from Derby County, with the two clubs having agreed a fee.

The Irish U21 international has been a long-term target for Brighton. Although Derby County rejected the Premier League team's latest offer in the winter window, after further negotiations, a breakthrough was finally reached. At present, the transfer procedures still need to be completed.

Earlier on Thursday, Derby manager Paul Vaughan told Mirror Online: "The deal is now being dealt with by the board and is beyond my remit."

"Kashin is still training with the team and unless I receive further notice, there is no change in the situation."

"For now, I expect him to play on Saturday, but things can change so quickly in football and anything can happen."

“When preparing the team today, I still considered Cashin to be part of the team and that’s all the information I have at this point.”

Brighton have been looking to strengthen their central defence in this transfer window after Brazilian defender Igor was ruled out for the season due to a hamstring injury, leaving the team in urgent need of new defensive players.