Brighton and Hove Albion have allegedly joined Premier League newcomers Burnley in the race to sign Manchester City youngster Cole Palmer.
The Daily Mail report that both clubs are interested in signing the 21-year-old permanently, but treble-winners City prefer a loan deal for the winger.
Palmer impressed at the recent Euro U21 competition in Georgia, with three assists and one goal helping England win their first European U21 Championship since 1984.
However, if Brighton are to sign the winger, they will have to fend off strong interest from Burnley, who are managed by Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany.
Kompany is said to be a big admirer of the youngster, with Pep Guardiola wanting Palmer to gain valuable first-team minutes in the Premier League this season.
Would Cole Palmer be a good fit for Brighton?
Despite being just 21, the City Academy graduate has already made 41 first-team appearances for the club, scoring five goals including in the Champions League against Belgian side Club Brugge in 2021.
He has often been utilised as a winger under Guardiola but is more than capable of playing as a false nine, or even as a number 10 behind the striker.
Palmer is a very technically gifted forward, who is not scared to beat a man and also showcase his wide range of passing.
With Brighton being a side who are full of up-and-coming talent, a loan move to the Seagulls would provide the City youngster with valuable experience as well as a great platform to push on in his career.
It would allow City to trust in the loan process, knowing that Brighton – now a team competing in European competition – very much play football the right way.