Brighton & Hove Albion are determined to keep two of their star players away from the grasp of Premier League clubs.

Midfielder Dale Stephens is a known target for top flight returnees Burnley, who are looking to replace Joey Barton, while Crystal Palace are believed to be looking to hijack the Clarets pursuit.

Brighton have turned down three Burnley bids for the 27-year-old who is expected to be now the subject of a proposal from Eagles boss Alan Pardew.

24-year-old central defender Lewis Dunk is also a wanted man with West Bromwich Albion believed to be keen, however, Chris Hughton has no plans to offload the pair as he goes after promotion from the Championship this season.