By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

15th Aug, 2023 | 12:00pm

Sources: Bournemouth now in pole position to sign Tyler Adams as Brighton deal collapses

Bournemouth have moved ahead of Brighton in the race to sign Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams, sources have told Football Insider.

Football Insider revealed on Monday (14 August) that the Seagulls are “big admirers” of the 24-year-old and are exploring a potential move.

However, Adams’ wages have proved a stumbling block in negotiations with Brighton – who have lost Moises Caicedo to Chelsea.

Football Insider revealed on Saturday (12 August) that the Blues, in turn, scrapped a deal for the United States international at the eleventh hour – even after he completed a medical.

Adams, who has a reported £20million release clause in his Leeds contract, is on a reported wage of £55,000-a-week at Elland Road.

That salary has proved a stumbling block for Brighton – who have established a reputation as a frugal and financially-savvy club in recent years.

It is believed Bournemouth are now in the driving seat in the race for Adams but could yet face competition amid a backdrop of widespread Premier League interest.

The former RB Leipzig star, who was relegated with Leeds at the end of the 2022-23 campaign, is currently out injured and hasn’t played since March.

Adams made 26 club appearances across all competitions last season before his season was cut short with a hamstring injury.

He also captained the United States at the World Cup in Qatar as they reached the last 16 of the competition.

Leeds are facing an exodus of their top players following relegation to the Championship and have already lost nine stars for knockdown fees or on loans.

Meanwhile, Brighton will continue the search for a Caicedo replacement – following his reported £115million British-record move to Chelsea.

In other news, major update on West Ham move for Bournemouth star.