Brighton reject opening bid for winger as rival suitors circle despite ongoing contract extension negotiations

Fresh developments regarding Carl Rushworth appear to emerge every few days, whilst Igor Julio continues to be linked with teams around Europe.

Defensive duo Jan Paul van Hecke and Diego Coppola have already left the club this summer, whilst a number of youngsters have been loaned out. Joel Veltman, Solly March and Adam Webster have left as free agents.

Amario Cozier-Duberry’s development has also been the talk of clubs around Europe following his exceptional loan spell with Bolton Wanderers last season.

The Brighton Base understands that the Seagulls are looking to tie the winger down to a new deal at the Amex Stadium, with his current contract expiring in 2028.

However, those talks have been going on for much of the summer, and suitors are now beginning to move into the frame.

Anderlecht have already had an offer worth £5million rejected for the former Arsenal academy graduate and are mulling over whether to return with an improved package, whilst Rangers are believed to be preparing a concrete bid of their own.

Red Bull Salzburg are also alert to the situation and have discussed bringing him through their tried and tested pathway, whilst West Ham have also explored the possibility of signing the winger as part of their bid to return to the Premier League.

Brighton remain keen for Cozier-Duberry to be part of their squad next season though, and although contract talks are yet to be concluded, there is no immediate rush to part ways with the 21-year-old.

Fabian Hurzeler’s side are hoping to head into next season with a slightly larger squad to cope with the demands of the UEFA Conference League – a competition which has been earmarked as where Cozier-Duberry could feature.

The Seagulls would like to strengthen further in attack regardless, and the ongoing situation with the ex-Blackburn Rovers loanee is not expected to change irrespective of any arrivals at this stage.