Brighton manager Hurzeler reacts when asked about signing Leeds United forward Rutter
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has responded to the speculation surrounding Leeds United attacker Georginio Rutter.
The Frenchman is understood to have given the nod to move to the Seagulls this month [Florian Plettenberg] after they activated his £40million release clause. [David Ornstein]
However, Hurzeler is unwilling to commit one way or another when asked about the 22-year-old moving to the Amex.
He said, as quoted by Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg: “I am very happy with the squad we already have. Of course, it is also our job to search if there is any player who fits our profile, our style of play, and of course the character of the player is very important for us. If there might be a fit, we might see what happens.”
Georginio Rutter is expected to part ways with Leeds United
Hurzeler’s response to the transfer speculation around Rutter, while not a direct confirmation, certainly leaves room for interpretation that the deal might proceed.
By not outright denying the interest or the potential transfer, his comments suggest there’s substance to the rumours.
His mention of looking for players who fit Brighton’s profile and style, combined with the activation of Rutter’s £40million release clause, implies that the transfer is on track.
This approach of neither confirming nor denying but speaking in general terms about squad additions is often a tactical way for managers to handle transfer speculation, especially when negotiations are delicate or ongoing.
Given the context, including Rutter’s nod to move, the Brighton manager’s statement can be seen as an indirect acknowledgement that the transfer has wings and is likely to go ahead.
While Leeds may hope he doesn’t leave, chances of that happening appear to be extremely slim with each passing hour.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are eyeing a deadline-busting transfer of a Liverpool player this month.
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