Brighton are reportedly interested in Manchester United star Axel Tuanzebe, as Graham Potter eyes a defensive addition to his squad in the summer.
According to Football Insider, Brighton & Hove Albion are considering a move for Manchester United outcast Axel Tuanzebe. Graham Potter eyes defensive reinforcements, with the 24-year-old considered a good, economical option in the summer window.
Brighton and Graham Potter have been a sensational pairing so far, with the manager instrumental in developing some of their stars since joining the club. The rise in stature of some players has elevated the team’s level in many aspects, and the coach is eying new names in the summer to take the side to the next level.
Brighton reportedly developed their training centre from the huge transfer fees received for the likes of Ben White last summer. They are expecting offers for current stars, such as Marc Cucurella, as interest from Manchester City and Chelsea mounts in the next window.
Potter may not be looking to invest huge sums in new players and could look at bargain transfers for players he could develop further. One such target, as per the report, is Axel Tuanzebe, who does not have a future at Manchester United. The defender has seemingly lost his way in search of first-team football and finds himself on the cusp of a departure from Old Trafford.
Tuanzebe joined Aston Villa on loan last summer in search of regular first-team football. But, after the arrival of Steven Gerrard, he left the Midlands club in January and went on another temporary spell at Napoli.
However, Tuanzebe played for the club just twice in Italy, including a solitary league appearance. There is no chance of Napoli making the deal permanent, and the Manchester United academy graduate will be back at the club soon. He has a contract until 2023, with the club holding the option for another year.
However, if a decent offer comes in the summer, Manchester United could be happy to let him go, considering that they are eyeing fresh defensive reinforcements themselves. Brighton are reportedly interested in Tuanzebe, as Potter eyes quality defensive reinforcements to his squad.
Despite a strong finish to the season, Brighton did not sign a replacement for Dan Burn, who joined Newcastle United in the January window. While the interest in 24-year-old Tuanzebe could be genuine, he may not be considered an immediate starter, as Potter may look to work with the defender and develop him further.
Tuanzebe has the physical attributes to excel in the Premier League, but other aspects of his game need work. Potter may look to address the issues and make him an important player for his future squads.