Brighton are facing several important contract decisions involving some of their key players between now and the end of the season.
The Seagulls are enjoying an excellent Premier League campaign, with their 2-0 victory over Brentford last Sunday lifting them to second place in the standings. Fabian Hurzeler’s side are also competing in the UEFA Conference League, where they currently sit fifth and remain on course to reach the knockout stages.
Their impressive performances so far have given the club plenty to be encouraged about. The international break will provide an opportunity for the management to assess the team’s progress and consider important decisions ahead of the next phase of the season.
Tom McGill: The 26-year-old goalkeeper has been at Brighton since 2014, having worked his way through the club’s youth system. Despite several loan spells with Worthing, Greenwich, Basingstoke, Crawley Town and Milton Keynes, he is yet to make a senior appearance for the Seagulls. Although he has received several senior call-ups for Canada, he is still waiting to make his international debut. A summer departure could be an option if he wants more regular playing time.
Lewis Dunk: At 34, Brighton’s captain continues to demonstrate his importance to the team. He has enjoyed an outstanding start to the campaign, contributing to seven Premier League clean sheets. With 533 appearances for the club, extending his contract this summer would seem a natural decision.
Yasin Ayari: His contract situation is one worth watching closely. Brighton and the Swedish midfielder have yet to reach an agreement over a new deal, although the club reportedly have the option to extend his current contract by another year. The 23-year-old has been impressive in midfield, and Chelsea, who have a strong history of signing Brighton players, are reportedly interested in securing his services.
Pascal Gross: The experienced 35-year-old has featured in every match across all competitions this season. His consistency, quality and influence both on and off the pitch make him an important figure in the squad. Brighton would have a strong reason to offer him another contract.
Kaoru Mitoma: Could this be the summer Brighton consider parting ways with their Japanese winger? The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season because of a hamstring injury but is expected to return shortly after the international break. His performances during the second half of the campaign could determine his future. If he returns to full fitness and rediscovers his best form, he remains one of the Premier League’s most exciting attacking players.
Promise David: The Canadian international arrived on loan from Union SG, with Brighton reportedly having the option to make the move permanent for approximately £20 million this summer. He has made two substitute appearances in the Premier League against Leeds and Chelsea but is yet to make a significant impression. The club will need to assess his progress before deciding whether to activate the purchase option.