Brighton keen on Verona defender Diego Coppola | OneFootball

Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly keeping close tabs on Diego Coppola of Hellas Verona (h/t Fabrizio Romano).

The 20-year-old centre-back is attracting interest after a solid season in the Serie A with Verona.

Coppola has made 33 appearances across all competitions this campaign. He has scored twice and impressed with his reading of the game.

Brighton have developed a reputation for identifying young talents and turning them into top players.

Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, Ben White and Marc Cucurella are prime examples. All were signed for relatively small fees before being sold for a profit.

Brighton have relied heavily on Lewis Dunk and Jan Paul van Hecke as their central defensive pairing this season, but want to strengthen their options.

Brighton planning summer move for Coppola

Coppola is seen as a future star in Italian football and is already part of the Italy U21 squad. His performances for Verona have not gone unnoticed.

Transfermarkt values the defender at around €7 million, making him an affordable and sensible option for Brighton. His age and potential also align with the club’s recruitment strategy.

The Seagulls are ninth in the Premier League with 55 points. However, the team will need to strengthen if they want to challenge higher up the table.

Coppola’s addition would add competition, cover and a long-term option to the back line.

Brighton have repeatedly proven they can spot young talent. A move for Coppola would be in line with the club’s shrewd transfer model.