Albion are well-known for taking a shrewd approach in the transfer market and their strategy has been to buy some of the world's best young talent and then develop them with the club.
The likes of Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, Leo Trossard and Tariq Lamptey have all flourished at Brighton and have been given their big chance to shine in the Premier League.
Brighton's squad has however looked a little stretched of late and after last Sunday's 2-1 loss to Aston Villa – Albion last match before the World Cup break – De Zerbi said reinforcements are required.
"We haven’t spoken yet with the club (about January plans). I think we need something to complete the squad. We have some positions on the pitch where have to do something for sure but I think there will be a lot of problems,” said the former Shakhtar Donetsk boss who replaced Graham Potter following his move to Chelsea.
Here's a list of nine players Albion could target this January...
5. Ben Brereton Diaz
The Chile international striker continues to carve it up in the Championship. His contract at Blackburn expires in June 2023 and it is thought bids of around £20m could secure the services of the 23-year-old. West Ham, Leeds and Everton are monitoring the situation. Photo: Justin Setterfield
6. Davide Frattesi
The 23-year-old Italy international and Sassuolo midfielder could be tempted to team up once against with De Zerbi after the pair worked together in Serie A. The £20m rated player is contracted with his current club until June 2026 and is also wanted by Roma and AC Milan. Photo: FILIPPO MONTEFORTE
7. Sander Berge
The 24-year-old Norway international is contracted with Sheffield United until June 2024. He has previously been linked with Liverpool and Chelsea and would certainly boost De Zerbi's midfield options. One of the best players in the Championship and valued at around £16m. Photo: George Wood
8. Simon Adringa
Sometimes the best option can be fairly close to home and Albion may look to cut short the loan of attacking winger Adringa, who has impressed with Union SG. The 20-year-old from Ivory Coast joined Brighton for £7m from Nordsjælland last summer. Photo: BHAFC