Man Utd face 'Brighton battle' for Championship ace despite making transfer feelings clear

Manchester United reportedly face competition from Brighton and Hove Albion and other Premier League rivals for Leicester City midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall this summer. But the Foxes maestro might not be going anywhere after helping guide his boyhood club back to the top flight.

Dewsbury-Hall registered 12 goals and 14 assists in 44 Championship appearances as Leicester sealed instant promotion as champions.

Reports in March touted United as suitors due to a belief that he would offer high value and add versatility to Erik ten Hag’s engine room.

The Red Devils were said to have already made contact with Dewsbury-Hall’s representatives over a potential transfer, with Leicester ready to ask for at least £40million if they restored their Premier League status.

After Enzo Maresca’s side sealed promotion last month, the 25-year-old midfielder insisted that he saw his future in the East Midlands.

“I’ve been at this club since I was 8 years old… I’ve got no intention of leaving,” Dewsbury-Hall said after winning the club’s Player of the Season award this week.

However, Leicester are already facing a potential points deduction at the start of next term and could be forced to cash in to remain compliant with Financial Fair Play regulations.

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According to the Mirror, Brighton are preparing to reignite their interest in Dewsbury-Hall after failing to complete a deal in January.

The Seagulls offered around £20m in the winter but Leicester reportedly demanded more than double that fee, sparking a breakdown in talks.

But they are said to be readying a return to the table, and the report adds that Brentford are among the Premier League clubs also interested.

United could also formalise their interest once the transfer window opens ahead of another summer of change among Ten Hag’s midfield.

Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Donny van de Beek and Hannibal Mejbri are all expected to depart at the end of the season as Ratcliffe scrambles to raise funds amid FFP restrictions of his own.

United reportedly want to sign a defensive-minded, physical midfielder to share the workload with Kobbie Mainoo, who has almost been ever-present when fit throughout his breakthrough campaign.

That mould of midfielder would serve as Casemiro’s replacement, but Ten Hag would undoubtedly be keen to fill the void left by Eriksen, who has become a squad option after playing a major role last season.

Dewsbury-Hall fits the bill, but United may have to look at cheaper alternatives, with Premier League competition likely to strengthen Leicester’s negotiating position.