Sources: Man United told 'huge fee' needed to land Fabian Hurzeler
Manchester United have been warned it will take a big fee to lure Fabian Hurzeler away from Brighton, sources have told Football Insider.
The Red Devils are believed to be strong admires of the 33-year-old and have been eyeing his progress amid the growing pressure on Michael Carrick's position as manager.
Brighton have enjoyed a strong start to the season, having won three of their five Premier League games including big wins against Aston Villa, Coventry and Arsenal.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Brighton are reluctant to lose Hurzeler and it will take big money to buy him out of his contract.
The boss signed a new deal at the Amex during the summer to extend his stay until 2029, likely adding to the finances involved to lure him away from the club in the near fure.
Man United have previously spent big on managerial changes of their own, and it remains to be see whether they would be prepared to do so if they decide to make a change.
How much will Man United have to pay for Fabian Hurzeler?
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider on 25 September that Brighton would be looking for at least £10million in compensation for Hurzeler.
The fee to release the 33-year-old from his new contract could even edge closer to £15million, which is likely to be a deterrent for Man United or his other suitors.
As a result, Man United have been warned it will be difficult to tempt the Brighton manager away, and they may be forced to decide against making a decision.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "It would take a lot to prise him away because Brighton do not want to lose Fabian Hurzeler.
"Hurzeler obviously is attracting a lot of attention because of what he's done at Brighton with his aggressive style of football and obviously an attacking style as well.
"It's no surprise that maybe other clubs are looking at him, but he was rewarded for his progress with the new contract in May to keep him at the club until 2029.
"Look, we know Brighton are very tough negotiators when it comes to selling players I'm sure it'll be the same with the manager.
"Any club that would be interested in Hurzler would have to pay huge money for him as well, so Brighton are planning for Hurzeler to remain at the club."
Why are Man United interested in Hurzeler?
Man United's interest in Hurzeler comes amid growing pressure on Carrick's position and doubts about his long-term future as a result of a slow start to the season.
While the boss is believed to be safe in his position as things stand, plans are already being made behind the scenes in case the Red Devils are forced to pull the trigger.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 22 September that Hurzeler is highly regarded at Old Trafford thanks to the work he has done with Brighton.
He has also led his side to a win at Old Trafford in the Carabao Cup, having been 2-0 down, and is receiving plenty of plaudits for the work he has done with the Seagulls.
Tottenham are also believed to be admirers of Hurzeler amid doubts about Roberto De Zerbi's future, with the Brighton boss attracting plenty of potential suitors.