Brighton set to sell Rushworth as Neuer extension reshapes goalkeeping plans
Brighton & Hove Albion are preparing to sanction the permanent departure of goalkeeper Carl Rushworth this summer, with the club's plans altered by Bart Verbruggen's expected stay. According to sources close to the situation, Verbruggen is now likely to remain at the Amex Stadium for at least another season, a shift prompted by developments at Bayern Munich. The German champions, long-term admirers of Verbruggen, have seen their pursuit stall as veteran keeper Manuel Neuer is increasingly expected to sign a one-year contract extension, keeping him at the Allianz Arena until 2027.
With Bayern's interest cooled and other suitors like Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Liverpool yet to make a concrete move, Brighton have pivoted to reassessing Rushworth's future. The 24-year-old has been outstanding on loan with Championship title-winners Coventry City this season, establishing himself as one of the division's top performers. Brighton had initially earmarked Rushworth to become their first-choice goalkeeper should Verbruggen depart, but that pathway has now closed.
Rushworth's contract has just 12 months remaining, and it is understood he will not sign a new deal unless guaranteed a starting role, a commitment Brighton cannot make with Verbruggen staying. Consequently, the club is now open to a sale. Despite this, Brighton remain high on the England youth international and, according to sources, will look to include a buy-back clause and a significant sell-on percentage in any permanent transfer to protect their long-term interest.
Interest in Rushworth is already building, with Leeds United, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United all closely monitoring the situation. However, sources suggest Rushworth's preference, should he leave Brighton, would be to join Coventry City on a permanent basis following his successful spell under Frank Lampard. The move would represent a significant coup for the newly-promoted side, securing a goalkeeper already proven at the Championship level and seemingly ready for the Premier League.
The deal ultimately hinges on the final resolution of Verbruggen's future, but all signs point towards Rushworth seeking a new permanent home this summer. For Brighton, it represents a pragmatic, if reluctant, decision to cash in on a valuable asset rather than risk losing him for nothing in a year's time. For Rushworth, it offers the clear first-team football he desires to continue his development after a breakout season.
