Albion secured Rohan Ince on a new three-year deal as a result of a summer of talks behind the scenes.

The midfield powerhouse, whose previous contract was due to expire next summer, is now committed to the club until the end of 2017-18 on improved terms.

Ince has yet to start a Championship game for the Seagulls this season but has made valuable contributions off the bench in the closing stages of all five matches for the early pacesetters.

The Argus understands there was interest in his services from elsewhere during the summer transfer window as his contract ran down.

Chief executive Paul Barber declined to comment on whether there had been approaches for the player but he said talks with Ince’s representatives and, through them, his family had been ongoing throughout the summer.

Barber said: “They were very positive and constructive talks.

“For young players with a bright futures, it’s very important for us to be proactive and positive, hence the decision to improve and extend his contract now.

"We’re absolutely delighted Rohan has committed his longer term future to us. Rohan is a talented young footballer and a very fine young man.”