Brighton & Hove Albion are plotting a bid for Ostersunds winger Jamie Hopcutt. The 25-year-old was born in York and started his career in England. But even after repeated attempts, he failed to make an impression in the English leagues and decided to have a go in Sweden in 2012.
Brighton booked a place in the Premier League after finishing second in the Championship last season. They almost secured the title after Newcastle United suffered some hiccups in the midst of their season. But a late charge helped the Magpies reclaim the top spot.
Brighton have made a number of interesting signings as Chris Hughton wants to make a very strong statement next season. Competition in the Premier League is becoming tougher and tougher but the Seagulls have already showcased their special brand of football last season and Hughton would be hoping to continue their success in the top tier.
Hopcutt hogged the limelight after his spirited performance in the Europa League. The Swedish side shocked the Turkish giants by getting the better of them 2-0 and the 25-year-old netted a delightful solo goal.
Ostersunds had a sort of a fairy tale as they have rapidly climbed the stairs of the success in the last few years. When Hopcutt joined the club they were languishing in the third tier but some inspirational performances saw them rising the steps of the Swedish League as they eventually got promoted to the top tier.
Not only did they perform brilliantly last season, they also defeated Norrkoping in the Swedish Cup final to clinch a berth in the Europa League. Hopcutt has been a part of the Club’s ups and downs but now Brighton are trying to bring him back to England.
Alongside Brighton, a number of clubs like Aston Villa and Wolves are also monitoring the player. The attacking midfielder has been one of the rising stars in Sweden and Brighton are ready to exploit his potential.
One of the added advantages is that the Swedish League is already at the halfway stage so the player doesn’t need any preseason games to get up to speed.
Hughton is eyeing to survive the next season in the Premier League and is very keen to bring the player. The 25-year-old has netted 39 goals so far for the Swedish club which speaks volumes about his talent.
His growing reputation in Sweden has attracted the interest of a number of clubs but a move to Brighton is looking likely at the moment.
