Brighton boss Dean Wilkins says he is still hopeful that he can persuade George O'Callaghan to move to the Withdean Stadium.
Talks between the player and the League One club stalled last night due to the midfielder's wage demands after the clubs had agreed a fee of £60,000 rising to £75,000 on appearances.
Wilkins said: "He liked what we had to say and decided he wanted to come. It was just a case then of agreeing the wages, which is obviously [chairman] Dick [Knight]'s department.
"Things hit a bit of a hitch and we are still waiting. Hopefully it could still be resolved."
The Seagulls are also keen to re-sign Dean Bowditch on loan, but Wilkins appears to have admitted defeat in his attempt to take Matt Richards on a similar basis: "It would have to be a loan but I am not sure how keen he is to do it. He wants to stay in the Championship."
Wilkins watched both Richards and Bowditch in action for Town's reserves in yesterday's 1-0 behind-closed-doors friendly victory over Bristol Rovers.
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