Albion are set to secure their fourth signing of the summer by finalising the patient pursuit of Finland international goalkeeper Niki Mäenpää.

The 30-year-old arrived in England last night and is expected to complete his move to Chris Hughton’s side today on a free transfer after parting company with Dutch club VVV-Venlo at the end of last season.

The Argus understands Mäenpää will sign for up to two years, based on various conditions to be met in the first year.

He will fly out to the French Alps tomorrow to meet up with his new team-mates at their training camp in Tignes.

The capture of Mäenpää as genuine competition for last season’s No.1 David Stockdale will spark a loan move to a League One or League Two outfit for coveted England under-20’s prospect Christian Walton to broaden his experience.

Walton is regarded long-term by Albion as a first choice option.

The Argus revealed at the beginning of May the Seagulls’ strong interest in Mäenpää. They have fought off competition from Nottingham Forest and another Championship rival, as well as clubs in Holland.

The deal was delayed while they sought a replacement as goalkeeping coach for Mäenpää’s fellow Finn Antti Niemi, who quit in May to return home for family reasons.

Niemi’s successor, ex-Albion keeper Ben Roberts, has approved the signing.

Mäenpää has been on the club’s radar since last summer, when compatriot Sami Hyypia was in charge.

The former AZ Alkmaar shot-stopper had three years at second division VVV-Venlo, helping them into the play-offs at the end of last season.

Albion have already signed Israeli target man Tomer Hemed and full-backs Liam Rosenior and Gaetan Bong. Hughton is still after another striker, centre-half and winger.

Left-back Bong has replaced Aston Villa loanee Joe Bennett, who is reportedly interesting Fulham.