Brighton CEO Paul Barber
Photo by Zac Goodwin/PA Images via Getty Images
Brighton CEO Paul Barber has made a transfer admission on a reported Liverpool target ahead of the summer transfer window.
Liverpool’s decision to abstain from making new signings during the January transfer window reignited a fervent discussion among fans, sparking both frustration and skepticism.
The lack of activity has been particularly evident online, with many supporters questioning the club’s transfer strategy and the influence of Sporting Director Richard Hughes.
Last summer, Liverpool’s transfer dealings were notably limited, with the only major acquisition being Federico Chiesa for £10 million.
The January window was anticipated as an opportunity for the Reds to address some of the perceived shortcomings in their squad. However, the club opted against bringing in new talent, instead focusing on loaning out several young players to gain experience.
Despite this, it appears that Liverpool is meticulously preparing for the summer transfer window, suggesting that significant moves may be on the horizon.
And while Arne Slot confirmed that the Anfield club was looking at strengthening in the summer, it seems that Brighton has left the door ajar for a potential sale.
Speaking to the BBC, Brighton CEO Paul Barber has admitted that the likes of Kaoru Mitoma and Carlos Baleba will eventually depart the Amex Stadium for ‘bigger clubs’.
Baleba has been linked to the Reds by GIVEMESPORT and has been quoted at a staggering £115m.
And according to the Seagulls chief, it’s almost inevitable that the Cameroonian midfielder will depart Brighton in the not-too-distant future:
“Teams will be wanting Baleba and Mitoma… can you allay Brighton fans that they will be here next season?” Barber was asked by the BBC.
“We know that our best players are always going to be sought after by bigger clubs with big budgets,” the Brighton chief replied.
“We’d love to keep all of our best players for as long as we can, but part of our model is being prepared to sell at the right time.”
“We’re not saying it’s going to happen this summer, but certainly in the future we know that’s probably likely to happen, ” Barber concluded.
Brighton has established itself as a renowned talent factory, and it seems that Baleba is being groomed for another lucrative sale by the south coast club.
Since his arrival from Lille in 2023 for £23.2 million, Baleba has transformed from a promising youngster into a standout performer in the Premier League.
The 21-year-old has racked up 29 appearances across all competitions so far, chipping in with 3 goals and 2 assists so far.
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