Albion have stepped up their efforts to sign a striker.

Manager Mark McGhee has brought in three frontrunners on trial as he "explores every opportunity to strengthen the department".

McGhee has made it his top priority now that Chris Iwelumo's contract has been withdrawn. Leon Knight is suspended for the start of the season and Chris McPhee is on crutches.

McGhee said: "It's got to be someone who can make the same impact as Chris did when he arrived last season."

Iwelumo, who was on a short-term deal, scored four goals in ten games and won the late penalty in the play-off final victory against Bristol City at the Millennium Stadium.

McGhee admitted finding a player to fill Iwelumo's boots will not be easy.

He said: "It's more difficult and more expensive at this level. You have to be creative and we're trying to bring in people from overseas.

"We have three centre forwards on trial who are all different and look good.

"If they continue to show well, we'll play them in friendlies so we can take a close look at them in games. We've seen enough to think they've all got something about them.

"Until we find a striker, we cannot afford to commit our resources anywhere else."

McGhee's striking options might be eased by McPhee's quick recovery from a broken foot.

He said: "I hope Chris will be fit by the end of pre-season, along with Simon Rodger and Richard Carpenter."

Albion yesterday confirmed that midfielder Paul Reid has signed a one-year contract.

Bristol Rovers will be the visitors to Withdean in the first round of the Carling Cup.