Albion could pull off a transfer double – if they see off stiff opposition from Germany and Spain.

The Seagulls are closing in on Portsmouth defender Matt Clarke, who had a medical yesterday.

They are also understood to still be in the running to secure Genk wideman Leandro Trossard, despite strong interest from top European leagues.

Clarke last night looked the most likely to arrive as Albion’s first signing under head coach Graham Potter.

The Argus have been told the process is ongoing but will take a bit more time as they do a deal with Portsmouth for the 22-year-old.

The fee will be some way short of the £4.7 million rising to £6.7 million reported in some quarters and will not include a sell-on clause.

Potter watched Clarke in action for Pompey, most recently during the play-off semi-final against Sunderland.

Albion have appeared favourites to secure the former Ipswich youngster for some time.

The Argus understands eight or nine clubs are keen on Trossard.

Albion are in contact with their counterparts at the Jupiler League champions and there could be developments in the coming days.

Borussia Monchengladbach are among the clubs in the running and Arsenal have been linked.

Albion might need to break their £17 million transfer record to bring in the 24-year-old and are understood to have an offer on the table.

Trossard had something of a breakthrough campaign in 2018-19 with 14 league goals, twice as many as he scored in the previous year.

He sees his next move as key to his career path and wants a club where he believes he has a realistic chance of significant playing time.

A source close to the player said: “This is the next step for him and he has to play.”