For a bit of fun in the meantime, we fired up the latest edition of Football Manager, and simulated the game beyond the summer and into the future. We had a look at the starting XI, key subs and manager it predicts will be on show for the Seagulls on the opening day of the 2020/21 season.
13. Sub: Christian Walton
After a fine campaign on loan with Blackburn Rovers, Walton breaks into the first team squad, and will be Ryan's understudy for the season. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images) Photo: Lewis Storey
14. Sub: Junior Sambia
The midfielder is a new signing and looks likely to be used as a rotation option. He's also listed for loan, so may well leave before the end of August. (Photo by PASCAL GUYOT/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: PASCAL GUYOT
15. Sub: Davy Propper
Now worth a hefty £20m, Propper has to settle for a place on the bench after missing much of the pre-season with a knee injury. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) Photo: Justin Setterfield
16. Sub: Marcel Schmelzer
The experienced German comes in to replace Martin Montoya. He spent close to 15 years on the books of Borussia Dortmund. (Photo credit: LEON KUEGELER/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: LEON KUEGELER