Manchester United’s interest in Fabian Hürzeler could come at a cost of up to £15 million, with Brighton determined to retain the highly rated young manager.
Hürzeler, 33, has strengthened his reputation during an impressive start to the season, including Brighton’s commanding 3-0 victory over reigning champions Arsenal before the international break.
His side have displayed the intensity, organisation and tactical discipline that United have struggled to produce consistently during their uneven opening weeks under Michael Carrick.
Brighton set to demand substantial compensation for Hürzeler
Football finance expert Stefan Borson has estimated that United may need to pay between £10 million and £15 million to secure Hürzeler, with the final figure likely to be closer to the upper end of that range.
The potential cost is linked to the contract Hürzeler signed during the summer, which reportedly keeps him at Brighton until 2029. The Amex club are understood to have little interest in making his departure straightforward.
Brighton are also reported to be ready to resist approaches from both Manchester United and Tottenham, who have been linked with the German coach.
United are not expected to change manager solely because Hürzeler has attracted attention. Carrick earned significant credit last season and is regarded as deserving time to address the team’s current difficulties.
Should the club eventually decide that a change is required, however, Hürzeler would represent a strong candidate. Brighton’s aggressive pressing structure and tactical bravery reflect several of the qualities United are attempting to establish.
His teams have combined an attacking approach with a degree of control, while he has also shown a willingness to develop younger players rather than rely entirely on costly recruitment.
The financial implications would be considerable. United would have to meet Brighton’s compensation demands as well as cover the cost of dismissing Carrick and his staff.
That expense may not ultimately prevent a move if United become convinced that Hürzeler is capable of leading a long-term project. The crucial issue would be whether the club could offer a young manager the patience Brighton have given him.
