Fabian Hurzeler refused to discuss the future of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba amid links with Manchester United.
The 22-year-old is reported to be a transfer target for United, but Hurzeler insisted his focus is on the Seagulls’ clash with Aston Villa before revealing Baleba is not fit for Sunday’s game.
Brighton boss Hurzeler told a press conference: “He’s a Brighton player. Like I said, I’ll never comment on any rumours that are currently in the media, it’s also something I definitely can’t control.
“A lot of things are written, I know about situations but again, in two days I have a very important game together with my team and with my staff. We want to have a good start in the Premier League season, that’s the only focus we have at the moment.”
Minteh to Liverpool?
Hurzeler was also asked about the importance of Yankuba Minteh, who has been linked with a move to Liverpool.
Hurzeler added: “We know in general all the players there are rumours about, they are important players for us because they’re a big part of the journey the last two years.
“In football, you have to understand, it’s normal if you’re successful as a team, if the team is doing well, they’ve had some good achievements, then an individual can shine. Then of course there will be a big ask for our players, that’s part of our identity and part of my job here.
“It was clear for everyone this might happen during a busy transfer window. We can go through every individual player, we all know how important these kinds of players are for me, but we also know that good achievements, big achievements, especially in the Premier League, you create offers, you create a lot of attention.”