Crewe would love to take Albion goalkeeper James Beadle back on loan next season.

But they expect competition for his services from clubs in higher divisions after he impressed with them in recent weeks.

Crewe boss Lee Bell has reported Beadle has returned to the Seagulls due to an ankle injury.

Bell said: “We will do everything possible to get him here next season, but he will definitely have suitors from higher up.

“We’ve already had conversations with Brighton, and I’ve explained what we can offer James.

"They have plans for how they’d like him to progress, so we will have to see.

“Brighton are a great club to work with, they have helped us massively.

"They just want what is best for their young players, which is refreshing.

"There will be competition, and James and Brighton will have to make a decision.”

Albion loan manager Gordon Greer recently revealed how impressed he had been by Beale’s efforts at Crewe since making the move in January.

Greer told Albion’s website: “He has done brilliantly. We felt like he was ready for a loan, but getting one for an 18-year-old goalkeeper can be difficult.

 

Get more Albion stories delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our Albion newsletter

“There are no guarantee with any loan, but we took a calculated risk that he would get opportunities to play.

“Since he’s got into the team he’s been excellent.

“I’ve been to a few of his games and now for him it’s about finding that consistency and playing as he is for the rest of the season.

“The level of maturity he has shown has been incredible.”

Crewe have already told Albion they would love to take Beadle back to add to his nine appearances this season