Exclusive – Newcastle, Leeds and Everton have all expressed an interest in signing Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Solly March.
The versatile 26-year-old has seen his role in Brighton’s side slowly decrease since the Seagulls’ arrival in the Premier League in 2017, starting just 11 of his 19 appearances and contributing one assist last season.
March has two years left on his current deal and a source has confirmed to 90min that Brighton are keen on tying him down to fresh terms, but his situation has attracted interest from a number of top-flight sides.
Graham Potter is hopeful a deal can be reached, but if Brighton are unable to convince March to extend his stay, the Seagulls want close to £15m to part ways with the midfielder, who arrived from non-league side Lewes in 2011.
All three of March’s suitors are on the lookout for attacking reinforcements this summer. Beginning with Newcastle, their Saudi-backed takeover could lead to a hefty spending spree if approved, but a takeover bid from American Henry Mauriss would likely have a similar impact.
The Magpies scored just 38 goals in 38 games last season – only Norwich, Watford and Crystal Palace managed fewer – and midfielder Jonjo Shelvey’s six goals were enough to get him to the top of the club’s scoring charts.
It’s a similar story for Everton, whose struggles in front of goal contributed to their fall to 12th in the Premier League table.
There are doubts over the future of Richarlison, who recently told Globe Esporte that he would listen to a good offer this summer, despite manager Carlo Ancelotti pleading with him to stay. Should the Brazilian leave, finding some more flair in attack would be high on the boss’ agenda.
As for Leeds, they are looking to prepare themselves for a return to the top flight and are looking to offer Marcelo Bielsa some more attacking options.
90min understands Girona’s Cristhian Stuani is seen as a potential cut-price target, with Leeds hoping to spend all of their limited transfer budget to help support Bielsa’s ambitions.