EXCLUSIVE
Brighton chief Paul Barber responds to ‘frustrating’ Roberto De Zerbi links with Barcelona and Liverpool jobs
Barcelona and Liverpool interest in Roberto De Zerbi is a compliment yet also 'frustrating', according to Brighton CEO Paul Barber.
De Zerbi joined the Seagulls as Graham Potter's replacement in 2022 and has since been a huge hit on the south coast.
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The Italian guided Brighton to sixth in the Premier League in his first season and European qualification for the first time in their history.
As a result, De Zerbi has caught the eye of top sides across the continent, with Barcelona and Liverpool eyeing new appointments.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Barber says the club are flattered by the interest although it's still something they'd rather not have.
"It's a huge compliment I could do without," he said with laughter. "I think, as we've said many times before, the more successful we are relatively speaking, the higher profile we have.
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"We expect our best people, whether they're coaches, players or staff to come to the notice of others.
"It is a compliment, it can be frustrating as well for us obviously, but we plan for these eventualities.
"I'm hoping Roberto is here for a long time. He's happy here, he's doing a great job here, the fans love him, the players love him even more and we hope he stays for a long time."
Barcelona have De Zerbi on their shortlist of replacements for Xavi, who will leave the club in the summer.
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Liverpool are also seeking their next boss as they prepare for Jurgen Klopp's exit at the end of the season.
talkSPORT reported in November that Brighton have a replacement plan should De Zerbi, whose contract runs until 2026, leave.
Brighton CEO Paul Barber strongly disagrees with the idea of increasing FFP boundaries in the Premier League
However, the Seagulls have spoken to him about the possibility of extending his deal and are yet to receive contact from other clubs.
Brighton currently sit seventh in the Premier League and have been drawn against Roma in the Europa League last-16.
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