Los Angeles FC's Ecuadorian star Jose Cifuentes is emerging as a surprise target for Premier League clubs.
According to The Sun, Brighton are pushing to close a £6 million transfer for the midfielder.
The 23-year-old is now qualified for a UK work permit, as he is a full Ecuadorian international.
The source adds that both Newcastle United and Leeds United are alerted to the Brighton deal.
They are contemplating a late hijack to try and secure Cifuentes.
Brighton have been known for finding talented gems on the market for low prices, and then selling them on for massive fees after a few years.