At a glance
- Brighton interested in Sunderland defender Trai Hume
- Joel Veltman future remains uncertain at the Amex
- Sunderland reportedly value Hume at £30 million
Trai Hume has emerged as a transfer target for Brighton & Hove Albion as the club prepare for a potentially significant defensive rebuild this summer.
Reports suggest Brighton are monitoring the Sunderland full-back closely, with Crystal Palace also interested in the Northern Ireland international.
Brighton Targeting Defensive Reinforcements
Hume has developed into one of the Premier League’s most consistent right-backs since Sunderland’s promotion, impressing with his defensive reliability, aggressive ball carrying and calm distribution under pressure. Those qualities have reportedly attracted Brighton, who are expected to strengthen at right-back ahead of next season.
Mats Wieffer has frequently filled in at right-back this season despite naturally being a midfielder, while Joel Veltman faces an uncertain future at the Amex Stadium. Veltman is out of contract this summer and has been linked with a return to Ajax. If he leaves on a free transfer, Brighton would need another reliable option in the position.
That is where Hume enters the picture.
Hume Fits Hurzeler Tactical Profile
The 24-year-old joined Sunderland in January 2022 and played a major role in their rise back to the Premier League. He signed a new long-term contract in 2025, tying him to the Stadium of Light until June 2030, which leaves Sunderland in a strong negotiating position.
Reports claim the Black Cats would demand around £30 million before considering any sale.
Brighton’s interest reflects the club’s preference for athletic, technically secure defenders capable of contributing in possession. Hume’s ability to carry the ball forward and progress play from deeper areas would suit Fabian Hurzeler’s style well.
The move would also continue Brighton’s recent strategy of targeting players already proven in English football but still young enough to develop further.
READ MORE: Is Malick Yalcouye Brighton’s Next Midfield Star? – Read Brighton
Sunderland Hold Strong Negotiating Position
With European qualification still possible, Brighton are expected to strengthen several areas of the squad this summer. Defensive depth remains one of the clearest priorities.
Whether Brighton are prepared to meet Sunderland’s valuation remains to be seen, but Hume is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about right-backs on the market ahead of the transfer window.
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