According to the Mirror, Brighton are closing in on a £20m deal for Ben Brereton Diaz, following interest from Leeds and Newcastle.
What’s the story?
Well, it seems as if Leeds and Newcastle are about to miss out on the 22-year-old, as Premier League rivals Brighton make progress.
The Mirror believe Brighton are edging closer to an agreement, which would see Brereton Diaz arrive at the Amex Stadium in January.
It comes after Eurosport claimed Leeds and Newcastle would fight it out for the striker’s signature.
It is also said that the Seagulls have used their good relationship with Blackburn effectively, and are willing to pay £20m for the striker.
That is despite the fact Brereton Diaz’s contract expires in June.
So far this season, the Blackburn No.22 has impressively scored 17 goals in 21 Championship appearances.
Brereton Diaz’s good form comes after he became a South American hero when opting to represent Chile, which he was eligible to do thanks to his mother.
The Blackburn forward has scored three goals in his nine games for Chile, and his rise to international stardom seems to have kickstarted his career.
Leeds and Newcastle shouldn’t panic
At first glance, it seems like bad news for Leeds and Newcastle to miss out on a striker with 17 goals already this season.
However, Brighton are paying far too much money for Brereton Diaz given his contract situation.
His current terms at Ewood Park expire in June, so Brighton are paying £20m for a player they could get for free in a matter of months.
In our view, neither Marcelo Bielsa or Eddie Howe should feel too upset about missing out, as that is an extortionate fee given the situation.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
