Premier League 2017-18: Ranking the transfer windows of all 20 teams
By James Dudko
17. Brighton
Notable Ins: Jose Izquierdo, Davy Propper, Mathew Ryan, Pascal Gross, Tim Krul
Notable Outs: Casper Ankergren, David Stockdale, Elvis Manu
Brighton broke their transfer record three times this summer, yet still appear near the foot of these rankings. The newly promoted side’s place here is more about who they didn’t sign.
What the Seagulls missed out on was acquiring a truly prolific striker to boost their bid to stay up, after missing out on Vincent Janssen, per Sky Sports News. Consequently, it’s no surprise Brighton have secured just a solitary point through three matches, and are yet to score a goal.
Admittedly, manager Chris Hughton’s ultra-conservative tactics have done nothing to aid the pursuit of goals. In fact, Hughton’s handling of this squad could negatively impact many of his prime signings.
For instance, the 58-year-old eschewed signing a striker to instead pack his midfield with creative types. Dutchman Davy Propper cost £10 million from PSV Eindhoven, while Pascal Gross was a smart signing from Ingolstadt.
Gross has the creative temperament to play between the lines and release forwards behind a defence. Yet his most common target has been journeyman Glenn Murray, a striker who is too much for the Championship, but not consistent enough for the Premier League.
Brighton have done a lot to makeover their squad since earning promotion. Hughton does deserve praise for securing a loan deal for Krul on deadline day, per Andy Naylor of the Brighton Argus.
Yet overall, a lot of money has been spent not adding the firepower one of the division’s newcomers will need to stay up.