Brighton & Hove Albion are heading into a potentially busy summer transfer window, with several key squad decisions to be made as the club continues its push for European qualification under Fabian Hürzeler. While the manager is expected to sign a new long-term contract, a number of players could still be on their way out as the season winds down.
With only a few Premier League games remaining, speculation is growing that up to eight players may leave the club, either due to contract situations, lack of game time, or interest from other teams.
Adam Webster is one of the names most likely to depart. The experienced centre-back suffered an ACL injury during pre-season, ruling him out for the entire campaign. Reports suggest both the player and club have agreed not to activate a contract extension, which could see him leave on a free transfer this summer. Although he is nearing full fitness and feels stronger physically, his future at Brighton looks uncertain despite previously being a record signing.
Matt O’Riley also appears to be heading towards an exit. After failing to secure a consistent role under Hürzeler, and spending the first half of the season on loan at Marseille, his return in January has not led to regular playing time. Given his struggles to fit into the system, both parties may benefit from a permanent move, with Brighton hoping to recover the £25 million spent on him. He has previously attracted interest from clubs like Everton, Roma, and Juventus.
Veteran midfielder James Milner, now 40, is out of contract this summer. While he has contributed valuable experience and had important moments during the season, injuries have limited his availability recently. Although the manager has expressed a desire to keep him, Milner himself has remained uncertain about his future, making a departure a realistic possibility.
Defender Igor Julio is another player expected to move on. After an unsuccessful loan spell at West Ham earlier in the season, he returned to Brighton in January but has struggled to establish himself. With just one year left on his contract, the club is reportedly open to letting him go this summer.
A more significant decision involves Jan Paul van Hecke, who is entering the final year of his contract. The Dutch international has been a standout performer, attracting attention from major clubs including Tottenham, Newcastle, Liverpool, and Chelsea. With potential bids exceeding £50 million, Brighton may be forced to seriously consider offers, despite his importance and leadership potential within the squad.
Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen is also linked with interest from top European clubs, including Bayern Munich and Chelsea. However, with two years left on his contract and strong backup options available at Brighton, a move this summer seems less certain compared to others on the list.
Experienced right-back Joel Veltman, one of Brighton’s best-value signings, is also out of contract. Signed for a minimal fee in 2020, he has been a reliable presence ever since. However, with younger options like Mats Wieffer preferred when fit, and previous rumours of a return to Ajax, his time at the club could be coming to an end.
Finally, Facundo Buonanotte may also be heading for a departure. Despite showing clear talent, his loan spells at Chelsea and Leeds have not gone as planned, and he has struggled to secure a role in Brighton’s current system. With Hürzeler favouring a more physical style of play, it seems increasingly likely that he may need a move elsewhere to fully develop his potential.
Overall, Brighton face a major summer of transition, balancing contract decisions, player development, and potential high-value sales as they prepare for the next stage of their project.
