James Milner Liverpool Exit, Brighton Transfer

James Milner’s future at Liverpool is still uncertain, with the club not offering him a new contract despite Jurgen Klopp’s desire for him to stay. This has opened up the possibility of Milner leaving Anfield on a free transfer this summer. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Brighton are the “favourites” to sign Milner, as they are looking for quality, experience, leadership and depth. Burnley have also shown an interest in the 37-year-old, with the prospect of Milner working under former Man City captain Vincent Kompany and moving closer to his native Leeds. Leeds have been continually linked with a move for their academy graduate, though former manager Jesse Marsch claimed in February that they had avoided the “easy” option in favour of building a young squad. Milner is reportedly keen to commit to Liverpool for a ninth season, but Klopp hinted in January that he may have different plans for him. Since the return from the World Cup, Milner has played 18 times, including five starts, and he has been involved in 13 of the last 14 games in the Premier League. However, his minutes have decreased in recent weeks, with it now two months since his last full 90. A club like Brighton, who recently handed Adam Lallana a new contract beyond his 36th birthday, could provide Milner with a more prominent role as Klopp plots his midfield rebuild.