Brighton are closing in on the signing of Portsmouth defender Matt Clarke in a deal worth £3million, according to the Daily Mail.

The 22-year-old was one of the standout players for Portsmouth last season and scored four goals in 60 appearances in all competitions for Pompey, as Kenny Jackett's side reached the League One play-off semi-finals and lifted the Checkatrade Trophy at Wembley.

His impressive performances have attracted interest from Brighton, with manager Graham Potter looking to improve the squad he inherited from Chris Hughton this summer.

Clarke has made 170 appearances for Portsmouth after joining from Ipswich Town in 2015 and has become one of the best defenders in the EFL over the past few seasons.

Portsmouth have identified Oldham Athletic defender George Edmondson as a replacement for Clarke and have reportedly had a bid accepted for the centre-back.

The Verdict

I'm sure Portsmouth will be reluctant to lose on of their key players, but their failure to win promotion to the Championship last season meant that clubs were always likely to be interested in the likes of Clarke and top scorer Jamal Lowe.

Clarke was outstanding for Portsmouth last season and will probably feel that he deserves a chance to play at a higher level, so he may favour a move away from Fratton Park.

He could be a good signing for Brighton and would be able to provide competition for centre-backs Shane Duffy and Lewis Dunk, although he will need to make sure he can adapt to playing in the Premier League.