Graham Potter has emerged as Brighton’s top target following the sacking of Chris Hughton leaving Swansea City sweating over the future of their highly-prized manager.

The Seagulls axed Hughton just hours after the end of the Premier League season where they finished 17th just two points above relegated Cardiff City.

Potter has impressed in his first season managing in the Championship where he kept the Swans in the play-offs picture until the final couple of weeks of the campaign.

And that despite the club off-loading several senior players last summer as they reacted to relegation from the top-flight.

The brand of football Potter brought back to the Liberty Stadium and the way he has brought on young players will also have impressed those at the Amex Stadium.

No formal approach has so far been made but one is expected for the 43-year-old who has just finished the first year of a three-year deal.

If the Swans agree a compensation deal with Brighton, then it will be up for Potter to decide whether to fulfil an ambition to manage in the top flight.

Potter may want assurances from the club’s owners over whether he will have money to strengthen his side for a potential promotion bid for next season.

But news of Brighton’s interest comes amid reports that highly-rated Welsh flier Dan James could be on his way in the summer having come close to joining Leeds during the January transfer window.

Manchester United, planning a major squad rebuilding after a miserable season, are reportedly keen to sign James with a fee in the £15m region being mentioned.

That could influence Potter’s decision as the considers a crack in the Premier League just months after leaving Swedish outfit Ostersund for south Wales.