Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler is “very, very, very confident” Carlos Baleba will remain at the club despite Manchester United’s interest but will he start against Fulham?
Man United contacted Brighton about a potential deal for target Baleba, who is believed to be keen to join the rebuilding Red Devils.
But Hurzeler was bullish when asked whether Baleba will remain with the Seagulls this season, adding the 21-year-old is enjoying being at the club and has not been distracted by United’s interest.
“Very, very, very confident (he will stay),” Hurzeler told a press conference ahead of Brighton’s Premier League curtain-raiser at home to Fulham on Saturday. “It’s just my belief.
“I didn’t see any change in him. He only changed his hair, that was the only change he made in the last two weeks!
“He’s enjoying it with his team-mates. He’s enjoying being a Brighton player. I didn’t see any big change. He is an option to start for tomorrow.”
Here’s how the Seagulls could line-up against Marco Silva’s Fulham at the Amex Stadium today...
9. Matt O'Riley - No 10
Brighton rejected a £25m bid from Napoli for the playmaker which suggests Hurzeler has big plans for the Denmark international this term. Looks likely to feature in the No 10 role against Fulham Photo: BHAFC
10. Kaoru Mitoma - LW
Keeping the Japan international is huge bonus for the Seagulls and the winger will hope to start fast against Fulham Photo: BHAFC
11. Georginio
The £40m man may get the nod ahead of Danny Welbeck to start in the CF role against Fulham. New Greek signings Stefanos Tzimas and Charalampos Kostoulas are also options, but likely to be from the bench. Photo: BHAFC