CFR Cluj star Philip Otele has attracted the attention of Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford and other clubs, according to Voetbal Nieuws.
The winger has starred for his club this season, scoring 13 goals and registering six assists from 37 games.
Club Brugge have set their sights on the 24-year-old and have to battle it out with other clubs, including Brighton and Brentford.
The Nigerian’s preferred position is on the left wing, while he can also be used in other attacking positions as well. His profile and qualities have seen the Jupiler Pro League side identify him as a target, possibly to replace Andreas Skov Olsen or Antonio Nusa.
As well as Club Brugge, Brentford, Napoli, Bordeaux and Lorient have all shown interest in the player. However, the report states the Seagulls are the ‘biggest contender’ to sign him.
Adrian Mutu, who stepped down as Cluj manager on Wednesday, has backed him to make a switch to the Premier League.
“The interest in Otele does not surprise me, why should it? Otele is a modern striker who has the potential to make it in the Premier League,” he said.
“He possesses impressive physical strength, speed and technical skills. Although he can still work on his finishing, the interest doesn’t surprise me at all. He has the qualities to play at Brighton without any problems.”
Voetbal Nieuws state it’s no surprise both the Seagulls and Brentford have discovered one of the hidden gems in Europe, in Otele, and are showing interest in him.
It’s claimed Brighton have already come up with a plan for him, which would include an intermediate step [possibly a loan] at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Cluj, for their part, have set a €6m asking price. This could be a bargain for Brighton and Brentford, considering Otele has a potential to be worth around €30-40m in the future.
