Swansea are fighting to keep hold of boss Graham Potter – as Albion remain quietly confident of getting their man.

The Seagulls have told Swans they want Potter to replace Chris Hughton.

Albion have so far been denied permission by Swansea to talk to Potter.

But, having registered their desire to talk to the 43-year-old, they have no need to do so again.

They are now awaiting developments from West Glamorgan.

Albion are aware Swansea are not in any rush to lose their manager and are prepared to remain calm and patient.

They appear to have left the ball in Swansea’s court for now.

Potter is understood to be happy to stay with the Swans but would need assurances that funds will be available for players he needs.

He would bring Kyle Macaulay, his recruitment chief both at the Liberty and previously with Ostersunds FK, to the Amex should he move on. Albion would not see that as a problem and are confident they could find him a role which complements their current set-up.

Potter was on the South Coast last night, attending Portsmouth’s play-off tie against Sunderland.

He remains the top target for the Seagulls although they are alive to other potential candidates.

The odds for Phil Neville, who will be at the Amex with England’s women on June 1, tumbled yesterday as fans wondered whether interest in Potter was a smokescreen for pursuit of other options.

But Potter, who was 1/8 favourite on Sunday night while Hughton was still in the job, continues to lead the betting. Albion last night remained comfortable with the situation.

Preparatory recruitment work continues in readiness for a potentially busy summer and some staff are on holiday.

Much-coveted young Romanian midfielder Iannis Hagi – son of ex-World Cup star Gheorghe – is among the names being linked with the Seagulls.

They have already signed Tudor Baluta, his midfield sidekick at Viitoria Constanta. The pair will link up for the final time with their current club in the Romanian FA Cup final on Saturday.