Brighton have restarted the Premier League well following the World Cup break and have six points from three matches to show for their recent work. Albion are currently eighth in the league standings and this Saturday they face one of the sternest tests in world football as they welcome Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool to the Amex Stadium. The Reds are slightly off the pace this season but the likes of Mo Saleh, Darwin Nunez and Trent Alexander-Arnold are more than capable of causing any teams problems on their day.
All the while, in the background, the transfer window remains open – which can be disruptive, especially as teams circle Brighton trying to lure away their prize assets such as Alexis Mac Allister, Moises Caicedo and Leo Trossard. De Zerbi however is also keen to add to the squad with a number of names already being closely linked.
Here's how Albion's starting XI could look after the January window – if the transfer gossip is true...
9. Julian Ryerson
Brighton are said to be among a number of clubs across Europe tracking the FC Union Berlin full back. Could be available for around £5m this January as his contract expires in the summer. Although it is reported they have an option to extend for another year Photo: Maja Hitij
10. Danny Welbeck
Returning to fitness and the experienced striker will be key to Albion's push for Europe Photo: Ryan Pierse
11. Kaoru Mitoma - A
Brighton's Japanese international has made a huge impact. His emergence could help cushion the blow if Trossard exits to Tottenham Photo: NIGEL RODDIS