West Brom are stepping up their interest in Danny Cowley as Chris Hughton wants a break after his painful sacking by Brighton .
Hughton was axed by the Premier League Seagulls less than 24 hours after surviving a second successive top-flight campaign.
He has since admitted his shock and disappointment after inheriting a Brighton side in 2014 fighting relegation in the Championship.
Brighton replaced him with Graham Potter but Hughton remains highly-regarded , including at The Hawthorns.
The Baggies are looking to replace caretaker James Shan with a more experienced manager after losing in the Championship play-offs.
Hughton was top of their list but is now understood to be prioritising a family holiday and a break to re-charge.
Hughton, 60, admitted: “I was hugely disappointed and surprised by the decision that was made to end my time with Brighton.”
West Brom are now considering other candidates including out of work former Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic, Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill and Lincoln's Cowley.
Cowley, 40, would cost the Baggies £500,000 compensation from Sincil Bank, where his contract has another three years left to run.
Cowley and his brother, assistant Nicky, have taken Lincoln from the National League to League One in three seasons.
The Imps won League Two this season, having been promoted back to the English Football League in 2017.
Albion's next appointment will be their fourth manager in just over a year.
But Lincoln appear determined to fight to keep the Cowleys as they stated: "The accolades for our management team have been thoroughly deserved and it is understandable if they attract the attention of clubs at a higher level.
“However we have had no official approach from any club to speak with Danny and Nicky.
“The board talk regularly with Danny and Nicky who remain totally committed and focused on preparations for next season in our new adventure in League One.”
