Brighton make big double transfer move ahead of Everton and it could impact Sean Dyche's plans
Brighton have triggered Leeds United forward Georginio Rutter’s release clause.
Brighton & Hove Albion have added to their squad ahead of the 2024-25 Premier League curtain-raiser against Everton on Saturday.
The Seagulls have swooped for Brajan Gruda from Mainz 05 in a deal worth a reported £25 million. The midfielder, 20, has signed a four-year contract at the AMEX Stadium.
Gruda made 28 appearances for Bundesliga side Mainz last season. He is a Germany under-21 international and trained with the senior squad before Euro 2024. He could now go straight into Brighton’s squad when they make the trip to Goodison Park to face Everton (15.00 BST).
Head coach Fabian Hurzeler said: “I’m really pleased to get the opportunity to work with Brajan. I saw the big impact he made last season in the Bundesliga and he’s a player I admire a lot.
“The Premier League will be a different challenge but I’m looking forward to working with Brajan and helping to develop his big potential.”
Meanwhile, Brighton are looking to make another addition ahead of the Everton clash. The Seagulls have triggered the £40 million release clause for Leeds United forward Georginio Rutter. Brighton reportedly had several offers turned down but now the decision on whether to leave Elland Road is in Rutter’s hands.
Should Rutter make the switch to the south coast, he will be the third Leeds key player to depart this summer after the exits of Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville to Tottenham and West Ham respectively.
That could mean that the Whites do not allow Willy Gnonto to leave the club ahead of the summer transfer window shuts on 30 August. The Italy international has again been on Everton’s radar after they were unable to sign him 12 months ago. The Yorkshire Evening Post reported that the Toffees have already had a £23 million offer rejected for Gnonto, who scored in Leeds’ 3-3 draw against Portsmouth on the opening day of the Championship season last weekend.
Rutter would have to sign for Brighton by 12pm on Friday to be registered with the Premier League to face Everton.