Brighton are reportedly preparing a move to sign Liverpool icon James Milner when his contract expires in the summer. Milner has been at Liverpool for eight years now, and though Jurgen Klopp would like to keep him at Anfield, the club are yet to offer the 37-year-old a contract extension. The versatile midfielder is one of the most experienced players in Premier League history, having previously had spells with Leeds, Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Manchester City. Earlier this season he reached the milestone of 600 Premier League appearances, and the former England international is now third on the all-time list behind only Gareth Barry and Ryan Giggs. Milner’s trophy haul includes three league titles, two FA Cups and the 2019 Champions League with the Reds. And though he continues to feature regularly for Klopp’s side, it seems he is destined to leave this summer as Liverpool rebuild their ailing midfield with fellow midfielders Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita also out of contract.
According to The Athletic, Brighton are very interested in bringing Milner to the Amex in the summer. Roberto De Zerbi has got Brighton fighting for Europe and is keen to acquire his experience and versatility with the Seagulls potentially set to play in Europe for the first time ever next season. The Seagulls are four points off seventh-placed Liverpool but crucially have games in hand over their main rivals for the European spaces which include the Reds, Villa and Tottenham. However, Brighton may face competition for his signature as newly promoted Burnley are also interested in his services and may have an advantage in this transfer race. Their manager Vincent Kompany captained Milner at City and the chance to reunite at Turf Moor may appeal to him. For now, Liverpool face a huge game against Spurs on Sunday, while Brighton host Wolves on Saturday.