Brighton & Hove Albion will demand over £12 million from Manchester United if the Red Devils make a move for manager Roberto De Zerbi, according to The Telegraph.
United are considering the future Erik ten Hag and have the former Sassuolo boss on their shortlist of replacements, but a move will not be simple.
The compensation package is a potential issue, while several other clubs also have the 44-year-old in their sights.
Liverpool are looking for a successor to Jurgen Klopp, and he is on their radar. Chelsea, who have poached 11 players and staff from Brighton over the past couple of years, are also interested.
The Blues paid £21.5 million to take Graham Potter from the Seagulls and could turn to the Sussex club again if they decide to part ways with Mauricio Pochettino.
De Zerbi has received plaudits since joining Brighton to replace Potter last season. He guided Brighton into the Europa League – their first appearance in continental football.
He first impressed with Serie A newcomers Benevento but was relegated to Serie B. However, Sassuolo saw the potential and hired him. His Sassuolo side received acclaim from all over Italy for their attacking style and tactical structure.
De Zerbi continued to shine at Shakhtar Donetsk, where he won the Ukrainian Cup and left the side top of the league table before exiting due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
He has been hailed as a tactical visionary destined for big things and will have several offers this summer.
However, any club that wants to take the Brescia-born manager must be ready to pay the full compensation package Brighton will demand. He is contracted until 2026.
United have been reluctant to pay a compensation fee for Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth, and it will be intriguing to see if they are willing to meet Brighton’s demands.
