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Nine Brighton Players Likely to Depart This Summer – and Four Expected to Stay
Top clubs including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle are eyeing Brighton’s standout talents
This summer could mark one of the most eventful transfer windows in Brighton’s history.
After spending over £200 million last year, the Seagulls have already invested an additional £60 million this window, securing new signings such as Charalampos Kostoulas, Stefanos Tzimas, and Diego Coppola. However, several departures are expected, with both first-team regulars and fringe players potentially on the move.
Joao Pedro is widely seen as the most high-profile name heading for the exit, with Liverpool, Newcastle, and Arsenal all reportedly interested. There’s also speculation surrounding Kaoru Mitoma, Pervis Estupiñán, and Matt O’Riley, who may all be looking for new opportunities.
Here are nine players likely to leave Brighton this summer – and four who are expected to remain:
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Players Likely to Leave
1. Pervis Estupiñán
The Ecuadorian left-back recently revealed he’s considering his options. Manchester United are among the clubs showing interest.
2. Carl Rushworth
The young goalkeeper is seeking regular first-team action, which seems unlikely at Brighton given the presence of Bart Verbruggen and Jason Steele. United are reportedly keeping tabs.
3. Kaoru Mitoma
At his peak, the Japanese winger is eager to play Champions League football. Bayern Munich are consistently linked. Losing him would be a significant blow.
4. Joao Pedro
A departure appears almost certain. The main questions are his next destination and the transfer fee—expected to be around £65 million. Liverpool, Newcastle, and Arsenal are top contenders.
5. Simon Adingra
His future might depend on Mitoma’s. The Ivorian found consistent minutes hard to come by last season and may pursue more game time elsewhere. A move to Sunderland was close in January.
6. Valentín Barco
The Argentine, who was loaned to Strasbourg, is expected to join the French side permanently, with a reported £10 million obligation to buy.
7. Kjell Scherpen
After a loan spell at Sturm Graz, the Dutch goalkeeper has publicly stated his desire for a “nice transfer” away from Brighton this summer.
8. Julio Enciso
After a loan stint at Ipswich, the Paraguayan playmaker has been linked to Inter Milan and FC Porto. His agent has confirmed that Enciso wants a fresh start and more playing time.
9. Facundo Buonanotte
Following a mixed loan at Leicester, the talented Argentine’s future at Brighton is uncertain. While clearly gifted, he may not be in Hurzeler’s immediate plans.
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Players Likely to Stay
1. Carlos Baleba
Viewed as Brighton’s next major asset, possibly worth £100 million. He’s a regular starter and still developing, so a transfer doesn’t seem imminent.
2. Yasin Ayari
Despite speculation, the 21-year-old impressed last season after struggling during loan spells. Trusted by Hurzeler, he’s expected to feature more prominently next term.
3. Matt O’Riley
Although there’s interest from Atalanta, Roma, and Everton, it seems early for him to leave after joining from Celtic just last summer. He could still have a key role to play, even if he’s not Hurzeler’s first choice at No.10.
4. Evan Ferguson
After a disappointing season, Ferguson will be keen to bounce back. Joao Pedro’s potential departure could create more opportunities for him—despite added competition from new signings Kostoulas and Tzimas.
This transfer window is shaping up to be a transformative one for Brighton, with key players possibly leaving and exciting new talent arriving under head coach Fabian Hürzeler.
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