“How do you compete with that” – Premier League manager admits it will be ‘difficult’ to keep 25-year-old Manchester United target if big clubs come calling

Manchester United have been handed a boost as Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter has confirmed they could 'struggle' to keep Yves Bissouma this summer. The Englishman believes the midfielder is ready for a big move and with the Champions League on offer, he could leave.

Reports suggest that Manchester United wanted to sign Yves Bissouma last summer but could not get a deal done. The 25-year-old was unwilling to leave and Brighton were keen on keeping him as well, as per the rumors.

Speaking to the media, Potter revealed the Premier League side are bracing themselves for offers. He claims Bissouma has a decision to make this summer and there could be an interesting move on offer. He said:

"Yves is really enjoying his football with us and we've had lots of speculation over various windows and he's still here with us. But you also have to understand that the club and him, you face a point where you've got a decision to make. If there is Champions League interest, as an example, as a club how do you compete with that if you're 'teams like Brighton'."

"How do you compete financially and how can you stop the player taking that opportunity up? It's very difficult because it not only hampers the relationship you have with the player, and it's a challenge for that, but also damages your whole structure."

"We are clearly not a Champions League-structured team so it's quite complex, but we're quite relaxed about it. There is no pressure, no stress, no problem. We're enjoying having Yves with us, we're enjoying his football and I'd suggest that our supporters are the same."

The midfielder has made 16 appearances for Brighton across competitions this season, scoring one and assisting one goal. The Seagulls are currently ninth in the Premier League table and take on Watford in their next game.

---

Arsenal and Manchester United lead Yves Bissouma race

Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be in the race to sign Yves Bissouma in the summer. The Brighton player was unwilling to leave the club last summer as he believed the time was not right.

Bissouma was signed by the Seagulls in 2017 for a fee rising up to a then club-record £17 million. He soon established himself as a first-team regular with his tenacious performances in midfield. The Malinese has now established himself as a key member of Graham Potter's squad. However, with certain big-named clubs showing interest in him, it could turn his head.

With more experience now, the midfielder is reportedly willing to listen to offers at the end of the season. Aston Villa also showed interest in signing the midfielder while Tottenham were also said to be keeping tabs on him.