Bayern Munich 'plot move for Brighton star' after what they saw vs Coventry
Bayern Munich are plotting a move to sign Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and are keeping tabs on his performances.
Vincent Kompany's side have been working behind the scenes to identify a long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer, and the 24-year-old features high on their list of targets.
The Netherlands international has attracted plenty of high-profile suitors over the last 12 months, and has continued to impress under Fabian Hurzeler's management.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Bayern Munich scouts have been watching Verbruggen closely and have been impressed by what they've seen.
The goalkeeper most recently impressed during Brighton's 5-0 win against Coventry City at the CBS Arena as he recored his second clean sheet in four league games this season.
His long-term admirers are sure to have been impressed by his display, and with Bayern Munich circiling, they could be tempted to make a move next summer.
How do Brighton feel about selling Bart Verbruggen?
Football Insider reported in March that Brighton were concerned about losing Verbruggen in the summer amid speculation about Hurzeler's long-term future at the Amex.
Both the goalkeeper and his manager ultimately remained with the Seagulls, and have enjoyed a strong start to the season, but that has only led to new concerns.
With Bayern Munich now keeping a close eye on Verbruggen's displays in the Premier League, it may be difficult for Brighton to keep hold of him long-term.
"Bart Verbruggen is a very good goalkeeper and he's showing that for Brighton," Brown told Football Insider.
"It's no surprise that some of the biggest clubs in Europe have been looking at him, because he's very well thought of and is often spoken about in the top circles.
"I was once told he was a target for Man United, but that was under a previous manager and I'm not sure how strong those links are now.
"But when you talk about a club like Bayern Munich, who need a goalkeeper and have been looking for a long-term replacement for Neuer, he's certain to be on their radar.
"Bayern will have scouts keeping a close eye on his performances, and I have no doubt they will have been very impressed by what they've seen.
"When clubs like that come calling, it can be difficult for sides like Brighton to keep hold of their best players, but you can be sure it will cost a big fee for them to let him go."
Which other clubs are interested in signing Verbruggen?
Bayern Munich are far from the only club to have shown an interest in signing Verbruggen recently, with a numner of elite clubs across Europe eyeing his performances.
Man United have previously been linked with the Netherlands international, while Tottenham and Newcastle also considered moves during the summer.
Meanwhile, Football Insider reported on 14 September that Verbruggen could become the latest Brighton player to make the switch to Chelsea, who have been long-term suitors.
The 24-year-old attracted interest in the summer transfer window and has just two years remaining on his contract, with decision time soon approaching.
Despite having completed the signing of Emiliano Martinez, his slow start to life at Stamford Bridge and his age could force Chelsea to eye a younger option next summer.