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.