BRIGHTON look to have missed out on striker target Darwin Nunez after being gazumped by Benfica.
Albion were hot on the heels of the Uruguayan hotshot as they look to bolster their striker options.
Brighton have missed out on the transfer chase for Darwin NunezCredit: Getty
But they have been blown out of the water by Portuguese giants Benfica who have agreed a deal worth around £22million with the Almeria starlet.
That was a higher fee than the Seagulls were prepared to go and now Graham Potter will move on to other targets.
A new striker is needed following Glenn Murray’s loan to Watford which was confirmed on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Brighton also let another stalwart leave today as Shane Duffy was farmed out to Celtic.
The Irishman, 28, was being monitored by both West Ham and West Brom but only wanted to move to the Bhoys, his boyhood club.
Brighton would have preferred a permanent sale but granted Duffy his wish as a reward for his excellent service to the club.
It is understood Albion are still paying £20,000-a-week of Duffy’s £45,000-a-week wages.
While the loan fee is less than the £2million that had been suggested and there is no obligation for Celtic to sign him permanently.
Duffy, who will still have two years left on his Brighton contract after this season, said: “Growing up, I was lucky enough to get over to a few (Celtic) games and experience the atmosphere.
“It’s my boyhood club and it’s literally a dream when you’re a kid.
“Now I get the chance to go to Celtic Park and to play for the club is a huge honour and hopefully I can do them proud.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
