BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION have rejected a transfer request made by midfielder Liam Bridcutt, who is a target for Sunderland.

Sunderland have been credited with an interest in the Scottish international midfielder since Gus Poyet, who managed the Seagulls, took charge of the Black Cats in October.

Bridcutt, 24, requested to leave the American Express Community Stadium on Tuesday afternoon, but the Seagulls have knocked back his request.

In a brief statement this afternoon, the club said: "Further to reports in today’s media, Brighton and Hove Albion can confirm that a transfer request from Liam Bridcutt was received yesterday afternoon and subsequently has been rejected by the club.

"At this stage the club does not wish to make any further comment on this matter."

Poyet, meanwhile, denied any involvement with Bridcutt's agitations to leave.

“Liam Bridcutt putting in a transfer request? It’s nothing to do with me," said Poyet, who shares an agent with Bridcutt, on Tuesday night.