Brighton trigger Leeds United attacker’s £40 million release clause

Brighton and Hove Albion have reportedly triggered Georginio Rutter’s release clause.

That’s according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who claims the Seagulls are willing to pay £40 million to sign the Leeds United striker.

Wanted by German manager Fabian Hurzeler, Rutter, 22, now has the chance to return to the Premier League following Leeds’ relegation in 2023.

Brighton trigger Georginio Rutter release clause

Brighton’s decision to pursue Rutter may come as a surprise to fans. The south coast club are well stocked when it comes to centre-forwards. Hurzeler has inherited a squad already containing three senior strikers — Danny Welbeck, Joao Pedro and Evan Ferguson.

However, keen to add another hitman to their options, Rutter, whose deal at Elland Road expires in 2028, is top of the list with Brighton hopeful they can convince him to join their project.

The French-born forward, who joined the Whites from Hoffenheim 18 months ago, must now decide his future ahead of Brighton’s Premier League opener away against Everton on Saturday.

During his time in Yorkshire, Rutter has netted eight goals and registered 18 assists in 66 games in all competitions.