Alious**Brighton Braces for Major Summer Overhaul as Key Stars Face Uncertain Futures and Hurzeler Eyes Crucial Transfers**
Brighton & Hove Albion are heading into a pivotal period as four key players approach the end of their contracts this summer, forcing head coach Fabian Hurzeler to reassess his squad and prioritize key transfer targets. The situation is further complicated by ongoing injury woes, particularly in the full-back positions, which have plagued the Seagulls throughout the season.
**Full-Back Crisis Deepens Amid Injury Setbacks**
Brighton’s defensive frailties have been exposed this season, with injuries severely impacting their full-back options. Pervis Estupiñán has been sidelined multiple times, missing the opening matches due to an ankle issue and now out indefinitely with a muscular injury. Tariq Lamptey, primarily a right-back, has been filling in on the left but has battled his own fitness struggles, missing six matches due to muscle problems and illness.
Midfielder Jack Hinshelwood has been deployed as an emergency left-back after returning from an 11-game absence, while promising Argentine talent Valentín Barco has been loaned out to Strasbourg with an option to buy, limiting Hurzeler’s choices even further. On the right, veteran Joel Veltman has been a dependable figure, racking up 18 Premier League starts, but at 33, the Dutchman’s durability will be tested as the season progresses.
James Milner, brought in for his versatility, has been largely unavailable due to a persistent hamstring injury, while £25 million summer signing Ferdi Kadıoğlu remains sidelined after toe surgery, having missed the last 16 matches.
**Contract Uncertainty Looms Over Four Key Players**
Adding to Brighton’s concerns is the looming expiration of contracts for Veltman, Lamptey, Milner, and backup goalkeeper Tom McGill. Veltman reportedly has an option for an additional year and has expressed his desire to stay, highlighting his happiness both on and off the pitch. Speaking to *The Athletic* last December, he said, “I’m really happy. Brighton’s a nice place, my family are happy. I’ve played most of the games with this coach, and we have a good group of players.”
Lamptey, 24, remains a fan favorite and has shown flashes of brilliance with three goals and two assists across all competitions. Despite previous transfer links to Ajax, Fulham, Everton, Wolves, and Sporting Lisbon, there’s been little progress on contract talks, leaving his future in doubt. His pace and versatility make him a valuable asset, but injuries have hindered his consistency.
For Milner, the situation is more precarious. The 38-year-old started Brighton’s first three Premier League matches but has been plagued by fitness issues ever since. His legendary career, which includes 637 Premier League appearances, may be winding down, and his future at Brighton will likely hinge on whether he can regain full fitness before the season’s end.
Meanwhile, Tom McGill, recently recalled from a productive loan spell at MK Dons, finds himself competing with Jason Steele, Bart Verbruggen, and Carl Rushworth for a spot in goal. At 24, McGill will likely attract interest if he chooses to move on this summer.
**A Defining Summer Ahead**
With injuries decimating the defense and key players facing uncertain futures, Brighton’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be critical. Hurzeler will need to make swift decisions on contract renewals while identifying fresh talent to reinforce his squad. For the Seagulls, this summer could be the start of a new era—or the risk of losing valuable assets without replacements in sight.
Alious
