Brighton have identified Kieran McKenna as a contender to take over from Roberto De Zerbi.
The Italian is being linked to top clubs around Europe and may want to leave in the summer.
However, The Guardian states that the Albion already have a backup plan in case that happens.
They are eyeing Ipswich boss McKenna, who has his team on the verge of Premier League promotion.
McKenna, 37, has done a great job at the Tractor Boys, who were not among the favorites to come up.
Having worked at Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's backroom team at Manchester United, McKenna is now a manager in his own right.