Brighton & Hove Albion are in talks to sign young Ecuadorian striker Billy Arce, according to reports.

Brighton are said to be in negotiations with Independiente del Valle over bringing the 21-year-old to Europe on a four-year contract.

If the deal goes through, Arce will be sent out on loan to the Spanish Segunda Division side Albacete Balompie, where a young Andres Iniesta previously plied his trade.

"I did not imagine that in such a short time I would be able to play in Europe," Arce told Diario Expreso of the impending move.

If confirmed, Arce will become the Seagulls' ninth signing of the summer.