Georginio Rutter: Brighton & Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler quizzed about Leeds United man following £40m bid
Brighton & Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler has remained tight-lipped regarding the possibility of Georginio Rutter joining the Seagulls from Leeds United.
The forward’s £40m release clause has been triggered by Brighton, who are hoping to add the former France youth international to their ranks. It is now up to Rutter whether he moves or not, although a verbal agreement has reportedly been struck.
Rutter stepped off the bench for Leeds in the Carabao Cup last night (August 14), but was unable to turn the tide as Middlesbrough ran out 3-0 winners at Elland Road.
News of Brighton’s bid filtered through post-match, adding to the frustration felt among Leeds supporters. Hurzeler was asked about Rutter in his press conference earlier today (August 15) but was coy on the possibility of a deal being struck.
He said: “First of all, I’m very happy with the squad we already have. It’s also our job to search if there’s any player who fits our profile, to our style of play. The character of the player is very important for us. If there might be a fit, we will see what happens, but to negotiations or to players we want to maybe see in our squad, I will never say anything.”
Leeds have already parted ways with three first-team regulars in Archie Gray, Glen Kamara and Crysencio Summerville. Gray has joined Tottenham Hotspur, Kamara has linked up with Rennes and Summerville now represents West Ham United.
Losing Rutter would be another bitter blow for the Whites, who started their Championship season with a 3-3 draw against Portsmouth at the weekend.