Championship leaders Brighton are weighing up a second offer for Courtney Duffus after Everton rejected their initial bid.

The Everton under-23s striker is the subject of interest from Seagulls boss Chris Hughton.

Brighton’s approach was knocked back by the Blues earlier today but the club are braced for a second bid from the promotion hopefuls.

Duffus, 21, opened the scoring in the u-23s 3-1 win over Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village last night.

The victory extended the young Blues’ lead at the top of the Premier League 2 table to six points with seven games remaining.

David Unsworth has already sanctioned a major shake-up of his squad this month but insists they have to remain strong as the title charge hots up.

Everton’s second string have added Anton Donkor to their ranks this month but Unsworth may still be reluctant to lose Duffus who is coming back into form.