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Sun 24 May

Brighton already have the perfect Solly March replacement ready

Aaron McNicholasAaron McNicholas
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  • Brighton could replace Solly March with rising star Amario Cozier-Duberry
  • Former Arsenal winger impressed with goals and assists at Bolton
  • Fabian Hurzeler faces big attacking decisions ahead of next season

Brighton may be preparing to bid farewell to one of their longest-serving players this summer but the club could already have a ready-made successor waiting in the wings.

Solly March appears increasingly likely to leave the south coast after an injury-hit campaign that limited the experienced winger to just four Premier League appearances. The 31-year-old returned to action late in the season and came off the bench during Brighton’s final day 3-0 defeat at Manchester United but uncertainty surrounds his future as his contract nears its end.

March reaches major Brighton milestone

March’s contribution to the Seagulls stretches far beyond this season’s setbacks. The Sussex-born wide man recently reached the milestone of 300 appearances for the club after rising through the ranks following his move from non-league Lewes in 2011.

His loyalty and commitment have made him one of Brighton’s most admired modern players and the club paid tribute to him after the defeat at Old Trafford.

Head coach Fabian Hurzeler praised March’s resilience throughout a difficult season and highlighted the dedication he has shown to both the team and supporters over the years.

Read more: Tottenham launch triple raid on Brighton talent with De Zerbi

Amario Cozier-Duberry emerges as leading contender

Should March move on Brighton may not need to look far for a fresh option on the flank. One player attracting growing attention is Amario Cozier-Duberry after an eye-catching season on loan with Bolton Wanderers.

The 20-year-old joined Brighton from Arsenal on a free transfer in 2024 and quickly impressed during the club’s pre-season tour of Japan.

After a difficult spell at Blackburn the winger rediscovered his confidence at Bolton under Steven Schumacher. Despite missing several matches through injury Cozier-Duberry delivered 10 goals and 13 assists as Bolton secured promotion to the Championship through the play-offs.

Brighton’s coaching staff will monitor him closely during pre-season as excitement continues to grow around his long-term potential.

Why Cozier-Duberry could be the Solly March Replacement

There remains a sizeable leap between League One and the Premier League but Brighton believe Cozier-Duberry has the qualities to make the jump.

The former Arsenal academy prospect combines pace creativity and composure in attacking areas and his recent form has only strengthened belief that he could thrive at the highest level.

Speaking earlier this month Cozier-Duberry admitted his future remains undecided although discussions have already taken place with both Brighton and Bolton.

Also read: How injuries derailed Brighton’s next superstar

Brighton still weighing up attacking options

Albion also have several other attacking options to assess this summer. The Seagulls expect Brajan Gruda to return after his spell with RB Leipzig while Facundo Buonanotte has returned following difficult loan experiences away from the Amex Stadium.

Youngster Harry Howell remains highly regarded despite seeing his momentum slow during the second half of the season. Meanwhile Yankuba Minteh is expected to begin the new campaign as Brighton’s first-choice left winger.

Even so Cozier-Duberry’s emergence offers genuine excitement. Brighton consistently identify rising stars before the rest of the Premier League catches on and the young winger could become another inspired addition to the club’s recruitment success story.

Follow all the latest Brighton & Hove Albion news through Read Brighton.

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