Brighton & Hove Albion’s interest in Jakub Kaminski has become more complicated, with Benfica now reported to be in a strong position to sign the 1. FC Koln winger.
The 24-year-old had looked like one of the clearer wide-attacking options on Brighton’s summer list. BuliNews reported last week that a move to England could be completed within days, with Brighton said to be prepared to activate his €20m release clause.
The picture has since shifted. Bild reports that Benfica now have the edge, with the Portuguese club in advanced talks. WELT’s dpa-backed update also states that Kaminski is expected to leave before Koln return to training on 13 July, with Benfica currently viewed as the likeliest destination.
For Brighton, the situation is a test of how highly Kaminski sits on their list. If he is a priority target, Benfica’s move increases the pressure to act. If he is one of several wide options, walking away would fit the club’s usual transfer discipline.
Brighton’s Winger Need Remains Clear
Kaminski’s appeal is not difficult to see. He is 24, tactically flexible and coming off a productive season in Germany. WELT credits him with seven goals and five assists last season, while BuliNews says he made 36 appearances for Koln.
He can play from the left, operate as a left midfielder and also move into attacking midfield. That kind of flexibility would have obvious value for Fabian Hurzeler, with Brighton preparing for Premier League, domestic-cup and European commitments.
Read Brighton has already analysed how Kaminski’s mid-July release clause created a clear transfer deadline for Albion. The fresh Benfica interest changes the context. Brighton are no longer simply assessing the value of a fixed-price deal; they are now competing with another well-run European club.
The €20m Clause Brings Urgency
A release clause can simplify a transfer, but it does not remove the need for judgment. Brighton still have to weigh player terms, wages, squad role and opportunity cost.
The clause also cuts both ways. It gives interested clubs a clear route to a deal, but only for a limited period. WELT says the mechanism runs until mid-July, while Bild reports that Koln are already planning around the expected €20m income.
That creates a tighter decision window for Brighton, Benfica and RB Leipzig, who have also been credited with interest.
Brighton’s model works because the club rarely allow the market to rush them into expensive decisions. If Kaminski is the best available winger for Hurzeler’s next step, Benfica’s acceleration is a clear warning. If Brighton view him as one good-value option among several, standing back would not be a failure.
The next few days should reveal how strong Albion’s conviction really is. Kaminski’s profile makes sense, but Brighton’s decision now has to be based on role clarity rather than the fear of missing out.
