Leandro Trossard transfer saga takes twist as Brighton star leaves UK after Liverpool axe | Football | Sport
Leandro Trossard has travelled overseas after being told he would not be part of Brighton’s squad to face Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday at the Amex Stadium. The Belgian forward, who has scored seven times in 16 top-flight outings this season for the Seagulls, is now facing an uncertain future on the South Coast after being frozen out by ruthless boss Roberto De Zerbi.
The Italian tactician was left unimpressed by the player’s attitude in training ahead of the FA Cup triumph at Championship side Middlesbrough last weekend and took action earlier this week when he ordered Trossard to train alone.
“Leandro isn’t on the list of players for tomorrow,” Di Zerbi confirmed during a frank press conference on Friday ahead of the visit of Jurgen Klopp’s Reds.
But now in another surprising twist, Express Sport can reveal Trossard has now left the UK after boarding a Eurotunnel shuttle in his car early on Friday afternoon.
Although his destination is unknown, it is understood Trossard is likely to be returning to his homeland Belgium, which can be reached in just a few hours from Calais.
Brighton are thought to have taken up their option to extend Trossard’s current deal by a further 12 months to protect the 28-year-old’s value.
Tottenham have been credited with genuine interest in signing the Belgian international this month as he edges closer to the exit door.
After starting the campaign like a house on fire – netting a stunning hat-trick in the 3-3 draw at Liverpool to silence Anfield – Trossard has since lost his place in the Brighton side to lively Japanese international winger Kaoru Mitoma.
In addition to Spurs, Chelsea have also been linked with a swoop for Graham Potter’s former forward and it seems he could now be made available for transfer before the window slams shut.
Trossard is said to have rejected the chance to extend his stay at Brighton, who have been keen to negotiate a new contract with the dangerous wide man.
Speaking to Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad during an international break in late September, Trossard hinted he would be open to following ex-boss Potter to Stamford Bridge – providing he would receive assurances of game time.
“Our coach did leave for Chelsea now but speculation about me following him makes no sense,” he said, outlining his conditions for a transfer. “If the opportunity arises, I want to go. But I want to play and not sit on the bench.”
Brighton could now entertain offers for their £18million 2019 summer signing from Belgian outfit Genk as he continues to agitate for a move.
