- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Roberto De Zerbi is in talks with French side Marseille about taking over the Ligue 1 club.
Roberto De Zerbi was brought into Brighton & Hove Albion as a replacement and the Italian shone for the South Coast club.
The former Shakhtar Donetsk manager excelled for the Seagulls as the club achieved Europa League football but last season was not as successful for the club.
Following this, the decision, which was a surprise one, was that De Zerbi would depart the Amax Stadium in the hopes of a new challenge and it appears the Italian has found that new challenge.
De Zerbi held talks with Man United
Sources have confirmed to HITC that De Zerbi is in talks with the French side Marseille about taking over one of the biggest clubs in the country.
De Zerbi had held talks with Manchester United as they assessed options during the season review – as they considered replacing Erik Ten Hag.
However, following the internal review conducted by Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the club have decided to stick by Ten Hag despite having interviews with multiple other managers and De Zerbi was one of them.
The club are now understood to be moving forward with the Dutchman and the former Ajax boss is keen on a new deal at Old Trafford.
United rejection
After De Zerbi’s camp learned that Ten Hag was staying at Old Trafford, HITC can reveal that they accelerated talks with Marseille – who made their first approach to De Zerbi in early May.
The French side finished eighth place last season and with the potential appointment of De Zerbi, the club will be hoping the Italian can fire the club back into the Champions League places.
In terms of any compensation the Seagulls will receive, HITC sources understand that Brighton will be getting £5m in compensation from Marseille following the Italian’s decision to end his time on the South Coast.
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