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Brighton looking to pull off huge transfer coup by signing World Cup winner: report

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Brighton and Hove Albion have been linked with a proposed move for an experienced 35-year-old defender

Brighton and Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler
Brighton and Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler (Image credit: Getty Images)

Brighton and Hove Albion have been linked with a stunning transfer move for a former World Cup winner.

The Seagulls lost former coach Roberto De Zerbi to Marseille in the summer, with German Fabian Hurzeler soon installed as his replacement. Brighton finished 11th last season, winning just one of their last 10 Premier League matches.

With hopes high for the new season, Albion could be about to bring in an experienced addition that would help bolster their backline. The German international would bring a wealth of know-how having even played in the UEFA Champions League final last term.

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According to reports from Sky Germany, Brighton have made an official attempt to bring former Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels to the club. The German international is still considering his options and is yet to rule out retiring from the game altogether this summer.

Fellow Premier League outfit West Ham United are also said to be interested in Hummels who played a whopping 40 times for Dortmund last season. He scored four goals and played every minute of their UEFA Champions League campaign which eventually ended in a final defeat against Real Madrid.

“I have no idea what will happen to me in July,” said Hummels earlier this year. “I like the situation, but it also feels a bit strange. It feels strange not knowing. Everything will be decided in the next few weeks. Today the disappointment of losing the final outweighs everything.”

Transfermarkt values the German at just €5million ($4.2million) and we here at FourFourTwo feel the centre-back would be a superb pickup for the Seagulls this window. Lewis Dunk would help provide cover alongside him but Hummels' vast know-how of the game could only benefit Brighton defensively overall.

Mats Hummels of Borussia Dortmund looks on as he lines up with teammates prior to the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 Final match between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid CF at Wembley Stadium on June 01, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Mats Hummels of Borussia Dortmund could be on his way to the Premier League (Image credit: Getty Images)

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Matthew Holt
Matthew Holt

Matthew Holt writes freelance for FourFourTwo, amongst others, and boasts previous experience at GOAL and SPORTBible. He now works with us alongside his time at Manchester United and Reach PLC, aiding with online content for the website. Career highs include working at the FA Cup final, as well as scoring at Old Trafford in front of the Stretford End. A long-term sufferer of his beloved Scunthorpe United, he is often seen on the padel court, as well as occasionally as a six-a-side call-up.