After a 15th place finish last season, Chris Hughton’s Brighton And Hove Albion will now be looking to take a step closer to the top half of the table next season. But their summer recruitment will have to be spot on if they are to compete with the best in the upcoming campaign. Their transfer window is not off to a good start as it is now understood that one of their top transfer targets in Paddy McNair is no longer an option for them this summer.
The 23-year old is expected to be sold this summer as Sunderland are ready for a squad overhaul yet again. The Seagulls were interested in his services for a while now but reports suggest that Middlesbrough are favourites to land him. He is valued at £5m and Brighton do not seem interested to pay as much. So here are three players they can now sign in place of the versatile defender:
Juan Foyth (Tottenham Hotspur):
The 20-year old Argentine star joined Spurs just last season and played 8 full games, all of which came in cup competitions. He is still 20 and does not seem completely ready for the challenges that await him at the highest stage. He needs some time to settle into the country and a loan move might not be a bad idea for all parties. He has shown great confidence on the field and can definitely be an option for Brighton this summer.
Marko Grujic (Liverpool):
The Serbian international is an exciting star, desperate to break into the first team at Anfield. He is a midfielder, with no real experience of playing as a centre-back. But like McNair, he has all the attributes that will make him effective in the English league. He is still 22 and if a midfielder is what the Seagulls are searching for, Grujic is as good an option as any. He will also only be available on a loan but is an upgrade on the options in the squad, making him an effective investment.
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Didier Ndong (Sunderland):
Another player Brighton can target this summer is Ndong. Though he cannot play as a defender, Ndong is every bit as hardworking and gifted as McNair and could be a more than decent replacement for him. He joined Watford on loan in January but failed to make a single appearance in the Premier League but will definitely jump at a chance to play in the top flight with the Seagulls.
