Brighton & Hove Albion have joined the race to sign Sassuolo midfielder Davide Frattesi, according to TMW.
Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi is understood to be a huge admirer of the 23-year-old and is keen to bring the midfielder to the Premier League this summer.
De Zerbi missed out on working with Frattesi during his time as Sassuolo boss, with the Italian spending the last three seasons on loan at Ascoli, Empoli, and AC Monza.
However, since his return to Mapei Stadium, the former AS Roma youngster has established himself as one of the finest midfielders in the Italian top flight.
Frattesi has been a commanding influence in the Sassuolo midfield scoring six goals and creating three big chances in 30 Serie A appearances this season.
Brighton were keen on the midfielder in the January transfer window, but a move did not materialise.
However, their interest has not waned, with the Seagulls poised to return with a tempting bid when the summer market rolls around.
De Zerbi’s side have already initiated contact with the player’s representatives to try and convince the midfielder into a Premier League switch.
Frattesi reportedly favours remaining in the Serie A, putting Roma and Juventus, who are also hot on his trail, in pole position for his signature.
Roma holds a long-term interest in the player who came through their youth ranks before joining the Neroverdi in the summer of 2017.
Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali had already confirmed that Roma came close to signing the midfielder last summer but also tipped the player to succeed in the English top flight.
Premier League giants Manchester United are also interested in the Italy international as they look to reinforce their squad this summer.
The Red Devils should be able to financially overpower the Italians in the race for Frattesi’s signature, but whether they can convince the midfielder to turn down offers from the Serie A giants remains to be seen.
