Brighton striker Deniz Undav could be set to move on this summer.
Deniz Undav’s time at Brighton and Hove Albion could be coming to an end, with Roberto De Zerbi having discussed the possibility of the forward’s departure.
Speaking after a pre-season friendly, De Zerbi addressed rumours of Undav’s departure. The Italian coach said, “I have three players more than Undav. We will see in the future for Undav, in these days, about the transfer…Joao Pedro, Welbeck, and Ferguson are enough,” as quoted by the club’s official website.
The Seagulls certainly have plenty of depth in that part of the pitch. Pedro has recently arrived as a club record signing, Danny Welbeck offers great experience, and Evan Ferguson has shown huge potential. Despite Undav’s influence in the first team growing towards the end of last season, it seems he has been forced out of De Zerbi’s plans.
De Zerbi balancing his Brighton squad
Undav has only spent one season at the Amex Stadium. Having been bought for £6 million in January 2022, the German was loaned out for the rest of the season. The 27-year-old has failed to make himself a first choice for the south coast club since then, and at this stage in his career he needs to be a regular starter somewhere.
Even with Europa League football to come this season, and squad depth therefore being of more importance than ever, it makes sense for Brighton to move Undav on for a fair price. However, it is vital that Welbeck can maintain his current fitness. De Zerbi has stated that the 32-year-old is in “fantastic physical condition.”
It has already been a busy summer for Brighton. It looks set to continue in that vein, with more incomings and outgoings on the way. Ahead of one of the biggest seasons in the clubs history, De Zerbi will be determined to get the balance of his squad right. For Undav, it looks like that means he won’t get the chance to strut his stuff on the European stage for the Seagulls.