“Really incomprehensible” – Brighton star’s agent hits out at De Zerbi, urges club to “cooperate on transfer”

Leandro Trossard’s agent, Josy Comhair, has released a statement insisting the player will not sign a new deal at Brighton and Hove Albion.

That’s according to Het Nieuwsblad, who cover the comments from the agent today amid a developing battle between Trossard and Brighton.

The Belgian star has been seeking a move away from the Seagulls for several months, particularly after impressing at the beginning of the season.

It was expected he would be targeted by former manager Graham Potter at Chelsea, with several rumours before the World Cup and comments from the player creating something of a building transfer saga.

A move away from Brighton is yet to materialise, though, and Trossard now finds himself out of the picture under manager Roberto de Zerbi.

The Italian coach made comments today criticising the forward’s commitment to the cause, insisting he needs to see him at 100% before he can consider him for a place in his squad.

That has not gone down well with the player’s agency, who have now issued a stern response via HLN.

“Before Leandro left for Qatar, Brighton’s intention was to extend him,” explained agent Josy Comhair.

“That did not happen as the parties did not reach an agreement. Leandro has also indicated he is ready for his next step.

“After the World Cup, there was an altercation at training with Leandro and another player over a triviality. Since then, the coach has not spoken to Leandro.

“In the run-up to the game against Middlesbrough, he had already indicated twice that his calf was bothering him. That was therefore the reason he stopped that training. And by the way, that was in consultation with the medical staff.

“Through the physical coach, Leandro had to learn that he had to train separately. Last Monday, the coach grounded Leandro in group and indicated he did not want to see him again.

“A coach who has not communicated directly with his player for four weeks is really incomprehensible.

“The coach himself has already indicated that (Trossard will leave). It is important for Brighton to cooperate on a potential transfer already this mercato and be sympathetic, which is beneficial for both parties.”