'There are arguments' - Fabian Hurzeler responds to key Billy Gilmour transfer report after major injury blow confirmed

Brighton’s new £25m signing Matt O’Riley faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines following his ankle injury sustained on debut against Crawley Town in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday (August 27).

O’Riley, signed by the Seagulls from Scottish champions Celtic last week, was forced off after just six minutes following a challenge from Crawley’s Jay Williams.

Hurzeler confirmed on Thursday morning (August 29) that O’Riley’s scan confirmed ligament damage and that the Denmark international will require surgery.

This development is expected to have a major impact on Gilmour’s proposed move to Italy. The 23-year-old has been linked with a move to Serie A outfit Napoli this summer, as their boss Antonio Conte looks to revamp their midfield.

Napoli had hoped to secure a deal for the Brighton man this week for around £15m.

But Charlie Parker-Turner, from the Daily Express, reported: “Billy Gilmour’s move to Napoli is understood to be off following Matt O’Riley’s injury against Crawley Town. No agreement was in place between clubs for the Scotland international.”

Hurzeler was asked about what O’Riley’s injury could mean for Gilmour at his press conference on Thursday morning.

The German said: "All the decisions, we discuss internally with the chairman. With Paul [Barber], Tony [Bloom] and David [Weir].

"All the decisions, we do them together. There are arguments for both sides and we decide what is best for the club. We make our decisions and then the public will see it."

However, Hurzeler did confirm ‘there will be outgoings’ as he looks to trim his squad down to the ideal range of 22 to 25.

He added: “These are all internal decisions. When they get to the public, we will let you know as soon as possible."

Tariq Lamptey has been linked with a move away – as has Amario Cozier-Duberry, who could follow fellow youngster Mark O’Mahony on loan to Portsmouth. Goalkeeper Carl Rushworth is also reportedly set for a loan move to Hull City.

Brighton have spent around £200m this summer which has far exceeded the club’s spending record for one window.

"I feel grateful and thankful for Tony,” Hurzeler said.

"It shows the ambition for the club. We want to make the next step together, build on the foundation of recent years and improve in some ways.

"I'm an ambitious guy. It's the right moment. Hopefully we can achieve something big together."