Albion head coach Roberto De Zerbi was asked last week if he likes the January window. His answer was very simple and very honest. “If we sell, no. But if we buy, then yes!”
Albion, who are eighth in the Premier League and aiming for European qualification, have a few gems among their collection. Alexis Mac Allister, fresh from World Cup triumph in Qatar with Argentina, is in high-demand as is Ecuador international Moises Caicedo. Leandro Trossard’s recent omissions from the starting XI have also increased speculation that the Belgian international could also be on his way this transfer window. Trossard was in fine form at the start of the season but has looked way off the pace since returning from Qatar. Brighton have already bolstered their squad with the addition of 17-year-old wonderkid Facundo Buonanotte of Argentina and De Zerbi will hope one or two more will be incoming before the end of the month.
Here’s the Brighton transfer window state of play so far and the very latest transfer news from each player...
9. Mykola Matviyenko
He can play left centre back, left side of the back three, left back and left wing back and it's something Brighton have lacked since Dan Burn left for Newcastle this time last year. The 26, played under De Zerbi during their time together at Shakhtar. He is ‘loved’ by the Albion boss and has also made 52 appearances for the Ukraine. “For sure I love him like a player. But I do not know if it is possible in this transfer market because Shakhtar is an important club and Colwill is playing very well, so I don't know.” Arsenal and West Ham have a long standing interest but the De Zerbi factor could help Brighton here - if there is a deal to be done. Photo: SERGEI GAPON