Brighton have already identified Roberto De Zerbi replacement as Man United swoop – sources
Brighton have already identified the replacement for Man United manager target Roberto De Zerbi, sources have told Football Insider.
The Seagulls and their analytics team have drawn up a long-term succession plan and are ready to implement it should they lose their in-demand manager.
It is believed Brighton are expecting De Zerbi to leave the club this summer, fully aware of the managerial turnover expected at the end of the season with so many elite clubs searching for a new manager.
As a result, the Tony Bloom-owned club have a full contingency plan in place and ready to go to make sure they stay ahead of the curve.
Football Insider has revealed that Man United see the Italian, 44, as the “stand-out candidate” to replace Erik ten Hag should they choose to make a change.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have also shortlisted the ex-Sassuolo boss with Jurgen Klopp set to leave Anfield this summer, although he is further down their list of candidates.
Brighton ready to replace De Zerbi if Liverpool or Man United meet £10m release clause
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that De Zerbi has a release clause in his contract at the Amex Stadium worth around £10million.
His deal runs until June 2026 after succeeding Graham Potter in the Brighton hot seat in 2022.
However, the Italian has recently admitted he wants to compete for football’s biggest honours in his managerial career.
Brighton have drawn up plans for the event of De Zerbi’s departure and will make a quick appointment as their much-admired project continues.
The Seagulls finished sixth under the 44-year-old last term and are in the knockout stages of the Europa League in the 2023-24 campaign.
This season, the south coast club sit seventh – but were knocked out of the FA Cup by Wolves on Wednesday (28 February).
In other news, Chelsea ordered to pay Brighton £7.7million.
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