Fabian Hurzeler praises Pascal Gross as Brighton ‘agree deal’ to re-sign Germany international | OneFootball

Fabian Hurzeler says he has kept tabs on Pascal Gross as a Brighton return edges closer. The Athletic reports a deal was agreed on 31 December for just under €2million, with up to €1m in bonuses.

Hurzeler, appointed in June 2024 a few weeks before Gross joined boyhood club Borussia Dortmund, said he tried to keep the 34-year-old but respected his wish to follow his dream. He added that he stayed in touch and that the club still hold him in high regard.

Gross delivered 32 goals and 52 assists in 261 games across seven seasons for Brighton. He played mainly in central midfield and was also used at No 10, right-back, left-back and on either wing.

Hurzeler called him a quality player with a major influence on goals and chance creation, while stressing Brighton had replacements and leaned on younger players after his exit. The head coach was speaking before Saturday’s home game against Burnley.

Brighton hope to finalise the move before successive trips to Manchester, City in the league next Wednesday then United in the FA Cup third round four days later. Winger Yankuba Minteh is on course to face Burnley after a scan showed only a dead leg from Tuesday’s 2-2 draw at West Ham. Mats Wieffer misses a second match with a toe injury.

Source: NY Times