Rushworth demands assurances of a starting role or he'll seek elsewhere, potentially impacting Brighton's goalkeeping plans.
Carl Rushworth is reportedly in talks to extend his deal with Brighton, subject to his future as the possible number one at the club.
Brighton and Hove Albion could face a difficult decision ahead of the summer transfer window, as links intensify for Bart Verbruggen leaving the club, and Carl Rushworth sending out his ultimatum.
Rushworth has had a stunning season at Coventry City, and it is looking increasingly likely that they will be promoted to the Premier League at the very minimum, if not winning the Championship title.
Brighton’s number one, Bart Verbruggen, is also the number one for the Netherlands. His season has been nothing short of incredible in comparison to last season. Rises in all statistics is one thing, but the eye test is always the best. His confidence, as well as match-winning ability, is like a totally different player in comparison to previously.
A big part of this is down to his natural progression, but it must be closely linked with the change in goalkeeping staff at the club.
Verbruggen came up again with big saves last time out against Burnley, as the Seagulls kept a clean sheet in a vital 2-0 win. Many Albion fans associated the game to being a must-win, with clean sheets and goal difference being just as important as points in this European run-in.
Verbruggen’s future is uncertain. Clubs like Bayern Munich and Chelsea are heavily interested. According to reports, if Manuel Neuer decides his time is up at the club, Bayern will look to the Albion no.1.
Chelsea are also looking to improve their goalkeeping options, as currently, the former Brighton man and £25 million signing Robert Sanchez isn’t cutting it for the Blues. Sanchez was Albion’s number three at the time of departure, and will forever be one of the more puzzling deals between the two clubs.
Rushworth could be next on the succession plan, but a heavy part of his Albion future relies on Verbruggen. Strangely, Rushworth is older than Verbruggen at 24 years of age. The northern-born English goalkeeper will be looking to push on the door to compete with Jordan Pickford for the English goalkeeping position in the years to come, but to do that requires regular top-flight football.
As for the Dutchman, Verbruggen has been the main man for his home nation from a very young age. Being only 22 now, he still has many years ahead of him at a very high level. With considerably more experience, it remains to be seen if the gamble of internal recruitment could be wise for Albion at this stage.
From Rushworth’s point of view, it makes sense. Coventry would likely want to keep him permanently, with clubs like Ipswich and many Premier League suitors keeping tabs.