Fabian Hurzeler has confirmed that Brighton have held 'positive' talks with German defender Mats Hummels and 'conditions are right' over a transfer.
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New Brighton coach has history with Hummels family35-year-old is available on free transferDecision now lies with ex-Dortmund starWHAT HAPPENED?
Hurzeler worked with Hummels' father, Hermann, during his spell as a youth player with Bayern Munich and believes his strong relationship with the family has helped talks with Mats. The defender has already reportedly turned down the opportunity to join Serie A side Bologna but Hurzeler is hoping that Hummels will choose to continue his career with Brighton after holding "good discussions" with the veteran.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Brighton have brought in five new players this summer, the most expensive of which being Yankuba Minteh, who joined from Newcastle for €35 million (£30m/$38m) in June. However, with all of their arrivals so far being midfielders and attackers, the Seagulls are hoping to tighten up their defence with the signing of Hummels, having only kept six Premier League clean sheets last season.
(C)Taka NishinaWHAT HURZELER SAID
"I have been in contact with the Hummels family for a long time, especially since my time at Bayern Munich," Hurzeler told "The basis for cooperation was always there when I had dealings with the Hummels. We value each other very much, had good discussions, but at the end of the day the player has to decide for himself whether he can identify 100 percent with the club.
"I can say that the conditions are right – otherwise we would not have pursued the personnel matter. The discussions were very positive, both on a professional and private level."
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR HUMMELS AND BRIGHTON?
Brighton will be hoping to have secured the signing of Hummels before they kick off their Premier League campaign with an away trip to Everton next week. However, having not played football since Dortmund's Champions League final loss to Real Madrid at the start of June, Hummels would likely take time to build up his match fitness before featuring for his new side.