Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler insists Carlos Baleba’s absence is down to fitness and not speculation over his future.
Man Utd are closing in on a deal for Baleba, who is currently nursing an ankle issue.
Hurzeler confirmed Baleba will miss Brighton’s game against Aston Villa but refused to be drawn on whether there is anything more behind his absence.
“Carlos Baleba is a Brighton player. I’ll never comment on rumours which are in the media and I can’t control – a lot of things are written,” Hurzeler said.
“I know about the situation but I have a very important game with my staff and team in two games. That’s my only focus at the moment.
“He’s not fit. That’s why he won’t be involved.”
Asked if injury was the only reason for Baleba’s absence, Hurzeler replied: “At the moment, yes.”
Brighton team-mate Yankuba Minteh has also attracted interest from Liverpool, who have had a bid turned down for the winger.
“There are rumours about the important players for us because they were a big part of the journey the last two years,” Hurzeler said on the rumours surrounding his players.
“But in football you all have to understand that it’s normal if you’re successful as a team, if the team is doing well, there’s some good achievements then the individual can shine and then of course there will be a big ask for players.
“That’s part of our identity, that’s part of my job here.
“We also know that good achievements, big achievements, especially in the Premier League, you create offers, you create a lot of attention and so therefore we have to wait now.”
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