Portsmouth are eyeing a loan move for emerging Albion left-back Alex Cochrane.

It is understood Pompey head of recruitment Phil Boardman is an admirer of the 20-year-old, who captained the Seagulls in last season’s Leasings.com Trophy.

But their ongoing League One status might count against them.

Albion's policy last season was to loan out more senior members of their development squad to teams in the Championship or equivalent if possible.

That has been the case with the vast majority of under-23s who have gone out to gain valuable experience at home and abroad.

But Robert Sanchez, at Rochdale, and Max Sanders, at AFC Wimbledon, were exceptions.

As well as their regard for him as a player, the fact Cochrane, 20, would be exempt from an anticipated salary cap due to his age is also attractive to Portsmouth.

It is likely other clubs will also be eyeing Cochrane as a loan option.