Brighton are seeking to trademark the 'Albion' name, it has been reported.

The Telegraph says Brighton are looking to trademark the 'Albion' part of their club name in order to prevent fans from buying fake merchandise.

The Premier League side, whose full name is Brighton and Hove Albion, are set to apply to the Intellectual Property Office in a move which could also protect their commercial assets and rights from exploitation.

Brighton are in talks with Championship clubs West Brom and Burton - whose full names also contain the word Albion - to create a three-pronged effort to copyright the name.

Brighton have already begun legal proceedings into the matter, and a West Brom spokesperson said the Baggies are discussing the matter with their legal team.