Welcome

Edward stepped into the elegant hotel lobby near Hoffenheim. He had arranged to meet Julian Nagelsmann, along with his agent, Marc Kosicke, in a private restaurant rented out for the occasion.

Inside the restaurant, the ambiance was warm and inviting, with soft lighting and tasteful decor. Edward glanced around, scanning the room for Nagelsmann and Marc Kosicke. Spotting them at a table near the back, he approached with a confident stride.

Nagelsmann, dressed in a sharp suit, rose from his seat as Edward approached, a friendly smile gracing his features. "Edward, good to see you," he greeted warmly in broken English, extending his hand in greeting.

"Julian, it's a pleasure," Edward replied, returning the handshake with equal warmth. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me again."

Nagelsmann gestured to the table. "Please, have a seat," he said, indicating the empty chair opposite him.

Edward settled into the seat opposite Nagelsmann, his mind already working on how to address the coach's concerns. As he prepared to speak, he noticed a hint of reluctance in Nagelsmann's demeanor, despite the warm greeting.

"Julian, I understand your reservations about leaving Hoffenheim, especially with the Champions League on the horizon," Edward began, his tone sympathetic. "But I truly believe that Brighton offers a unique opportunity for you to leave a lasting legacy in English football."

Nagelsmann nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, Edward," he replied, his English improving with each word. "But it's not just about the Champions League. It's also about the club, the players, and the fans here at Hoffenheim."

"I completely understand," Edward replied, acknowledging the importance of the factors in Nagelsmann's decision-making process.

Taking a moment to collect his thoughts, Edward leaned forward slightly, his gaze focused on Nagelsmann. "Julian, I hear your concerns about leaving Hoffenheim, especially with the recent success they've had," he said, his tone earnest. "But I want you to consider what the future holds. While Hoffenheim may have secured a place in the Champions League, there's no guarantee of sustained success."

He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "At Brighton, I can offer you something more than just a managerial role. I can give you the authority and resources to shape the club's future—to bring in the players and staff you believe in, to implement your vision for the team."

Nagelsmann listened intently, his expression thoughtful as he weighed Edward's words. Before he could respond, Edward reached into his jacket pocket and withdrew a document, placing it on the table with a flourish.

"But that's not all," Edward said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "In addition to the terms we discussed yesterday, I'm prepared to offer you something extra—a car and a mansion, a place you can call home here in England."

He paused, allowing the offer to sink in before adding, "And as for transfer budget, name your price, Julian. Within reason, of course."

Nagelsmann's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected offer, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Well, Edward, if you're asking, let's say... 50 million," he said, a hint of amusement in his tone.

Edward chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Consider it done," he replied, his tone decisive. "You'll have your transfer budget, Julian. And more importantly, you'll have the support and resources you need to succeed at Brighton."

Marc's eyes widened in amazement as Edward made the generous offer, clearly impressed by the lengths Edward was willing to go to secure Nagelsmann's signature. Nagelsmann, meanwhile, let out a small sigh, a mixture of relief and apprehension evident in his expression.

"Alright, Edward," Nagelsmann said, his tone conceding to the persistence and generosity displayed by Brighton's representative. "I appreciate your efforts."

Edward nodded, a smile of satisfaction crossing his lips. "Thank you, Julian. I'm confident that together, we can achieve great things at Brighton."

Before Edward could continue, Nagelsmann raised a hand, indicating that he had more conditions to discuss. "However, there are a few more things I'd like to address," he said, his tone serious yet diplomatic. "While I only have one player I want to bring across, Serge Gnabry, I do also have some staff members I'd like to bring with me."

Edward leaned back in his chair, considering Nagelsmann's request. "Of course, Julian. I understand the importance of having a trusted team around you. Who do you have in mind?"

Nagelsmann took a moment to gather his thoughts before naming a few key staff members he had worked with during his time at Hoffenheim. "I'd like to bring along my assistant coach, Alfred Schreuder, as well as my fitness coach, Oliver Bartlett." he said, recalling the contributions of different individuals.

Edward made a mental note of the names, already thinking about how he could facilitate their transition to Brighton. "Consider it done, Julian," he replied, his tone reassuring. "I'll make sure they're on board and ready to join you at Brighton."

With the staff issue addressed, Edward glanced at Nagelsmann, a sense of anticipation building within him. "Is there anything else, Julian? Any other conditions or concerns you'd like to discuss?"

Nagelsmann shook his head, a determined glint in his eyes. "No, Edward. I believe we've covered everything for now," he said, his tone firm. "I'm ready to take on this challenge with Brighton."

Edward smiled, a sense of satisfaction washing over him. "Excellent. Welcome aboard, Julian," he said, extending his hand across the table.

<> 

Brighton

<> 

As Edward and Nagelsmann finalized their agreement, Dan Asworth and Paul Barber, who are in a meeting at Brighton had just received the news of Nagelsmann's imminent arrival.

Dan and Paul exchanged a glance as the figure of 50 million was mentioned. It was a significant sum, and they both understood the implications it would have on their transfer strategy.

"50 million?" Dan repeated, his tone reflecting both surprise and skepticism. "That's quite the transfer budget."

Paul nodded, acknowledging the challenge ahead. "Indeed. While Edward has promised to inject 10 million for free and another 9 million as loan, so that will bring our transfer budget up to 50 million, we still need to ensure that we balance the books." he explained, glancing at the projection displayed on the wall from the projector in front of them.

As they turned their attention to the current squad, displayed on the screen, Dan furrowed his brow in thought. The list of players scrolled by each name representing a piece of the puzzle that would need to be carefully managed in the coming transfer window.

"March, Dunk, Duffy, Knockaert..." Dan muttered, ticking off names as he recognized them. "These are the ones Edward wants to keep, right?"

Paul nodded in agreement. "Yes, Edward made it clear that these players are the only players he'd want not be open to considering offers for unless they were substantial." he confirmed, making a mental note to ensure their contracts were secured and any potential transfer offers were carefully considered.

Dan glanced at the list once more, his mind already working on potential transfer targets and ways to strengthen the squad. "Alright then," he said, determination evident in his voice. "Let's get to work. We've got a lot to do before the transfer window opens."

Dan and Paul sat across from each other, a stack of player profiles and scout reports spread out on the table between them. They started their discussion with the goalkeepers.

"Alright, let's talk about Stockdale," Dan began, tapping on the dossier in front of him. "He's been a solid performer for us in the Championship, but do you think he's good enough for our vision in the Premier League?"

Paul considered for a moment before replying, "Stockdale's experience and leadership on the pitch are valuable assets, especially in a league as demanding as the Premier League. Plus, he's been a vocal presence in the dressing room. I'd say he's worth considering, but we might need to look for a younger talent to groom for the future."

Dan nodded in agreement. "Agreed. What about Walton? He's got potential, but is he ready to step up if Stockdale falters?"

Paul flipped through Walton's profile. "Walton's definitely one for the future. He's shown promise on loan spells, but he lacks top-flight experience. I think he could benefit from another loan spell or serving as Stockdale's understudy for now, Edward may want to sign a different goalkeeper though, apparently Nagelsmann likes someone good with their feet."

As they moved on to the defenders, Dan pointed to Lewis Dunk's profile. "Dunk's been a rock for us at the back, but do you think he's Premier League quality?"

Paul studied Dunk's stats. "Well Edward wants to keep him, and Dunk's physicality and leadership make him a strong candidate. He's proven himself in the Championship, and with the right support, he could make the transition. Plus, his commitment to the club is unquestionable."

Dan nodded in agreement. "Agreed. Duffy's solid, but we need to keep an eye on his consistency."

Paul glanced at Duffy's profile. "Duffy's a tough defender, good in the air, but he can be prone to lapses in concentration.

Paul scanned through the list, stopping at Gaëtan Bong's profile. "Bong's been a reliable presence at left-back, but his age might start to catch up with him. Plus, he's not known for his attacking prowess, which could be a drawback in Nagelsmann's system."

Dan nodded in agreement. "Agreed. We might need to start looking for a younger, more dynamic option at left-back. We'll take a look at the list Edward has to see if there are any options there."

Moving on to the midfielders, Dan pointed to Dale Stephens' profile. "Stephens has been a key figure in midfield, but is he dynamic enough for Nagelsmann's high-pressing style?"

Paul considered Stephens' attributes. "Stephens' work rate is commendable, but he lacks the technical ability and creativity that Nagelsmann might prefer."

Dan nodded, making a note on his notepad. "Right, we'll keep an eye out for midfielders."

They continued their assessment, analysing each player's strengths and weaknesses in relation to Nagelsmann's preferred style of play. Some players were deemed suitable for the transition to the Premier League, while others raised concerns about their adaptability or performance level.

As they reached the forwards, Dan pointed to Glenn Murray's profile. "Murray's been a reliable goalscorer for us, but at his age, we need to consider his longevity. Plus, his lack of pace could be a drawback in Nagelsmann's high-intensity system."

Paul nodded, adding, "Agreed. And Edward wants Haaland to be our main striker."

Dan furrowed his brow, pulling up Haaland's scout report and looking sceptically at Haaland's stats. "Haaland? Really? I mean, look at his numbers from the 16, 17 season—only 4 goals and 1 assist in 20 games. Is he really ready for the Premier League?"

Paul shook his head, sharing Dan's doubts. "Exactly. I was surprised when Edward mentioned him. What suprised me is who his father is. Alf-Inge Haaland. The one whose career was ended by Roy Keane."

Dan nodded grimly. "Yeah, I remember that incident. Still, it's a risky move, especially considering Haaland's lack of experience at the top level."

Paul sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Agreed. But Edward seems convinced. He's been in talks with Molde, right? What's the deal there?"

Dan checked his notes. "Looks like Molde is asking for a 1.7 million transfer fee, but they want to include a hefty percentage of profit clause of around 30 to 40 percent in case Haaland's value increases in the future."

Paul frowned at the mention of the profit clause. "That's a bit steep. We'll need to negotiate that down. How about we offer them 2 million upfront and maybe some additional fees, maybe after 10 games another 200k and we bring the clause down to 10 percent?"

Dan nodded, jotting down the suggestion. "Good idea. We don't want to burden ourselves with too many future obligations."

Dan and Paul exchanged a concerned glance as they pondered the implications of bringing in Haaland. It was a risky move, especially considering his lacklustre performance in the previous season. However, Edward seemed adamant about the young striker's potential.

"And what about the other one who we offered for? Jadon Sancho, right?" Paul asked, looking through scattered papers on a desk to find a specific scout report.

Dan shook his head. "Man City flat out rejected our offer, apparently they aren't interested in selling him to another premier league team, though, if we were to make a substantial offer they stated they'd consider selling him."

Paul glanced at him, momentarily stopping his search. "How much?" He asked, his tone curious.

Dan hesitated for a moment before speaking. "20 million." He said as Paul looked at him, disbelief crossing features.

"That's not happening, let's move onto Chris." He said as he shook his head, clearly uninterested in entertaining further talks over Sancho's possible transfer.

Paul sighed. "You interested in breaking the news to him?" he said, referring to Brighton's current manager.

Dan shook his head. "No, he's familiar with you, it's better you do it. But he's not going to be happy, especially after getting Brighton promoted last season."

Paul nodded in agreement. "No one's ever happy about being fired, especially in football."

Their conversation turned to the logistics of restructuring the staff. Paul frowned as he considered the difficult task ahead. "We'll have to let go of some of the first team staff to make space for the new arrivals." he said, concern evident in his voice.

Dan nodded, acknowledging the challenge. "Agreed. And we'll need to handle it delicately. No one likes being let go, especially loyal staff who've been with the club for years."

Their discussion then shifted to the ongoing process of reviewing every staff member within Brighton's structure, from the senior team down to the lowest youth level. Dan leaned forward, his brow furrowed with concern. "How's the review process going?"

Paul nodded, a sense of satisfaction evident in his voice. "The other board members are doing well. They've almost reviewed over a quarter of the recruitment team already. After that, they'll move on to the medical team, and then they'll start looking at the youth teams."

Dan sighed, relieved to hear about the progress. "Good. We need to ensure that everyone fits into Edward's vision for the club. It's going to be a challenging transition, but it's necessary for us to move forward."

Paul sighed, his shoulders sagging slightly as he glanced at Dan. "Well, let's get Chris in here now," he said, resigned to the difficult task ahead.

Dan nodded, a hint of concern in his expression. "Oh dear," he muttered under his breath as Paul reached for the office phone.

Paul dialed Chris's extension, waiting patiently as the phone rang on the other end. After a few moments, Chris picked up, his voice muffled by the sound of music in the background. "Hello?"

"Chris, it's Paul," Paul began, his tone serious yet diplomatic. "Could you come to the office? We need to discuss something important."

Chris hesitated, the sound of cheering audible through the phone. "Paul, I'm on vacation right now. Can't it wait until I get back?"

Paul sighed, glancing at Dan before responding. "I'm afraid not, Chris. It's urgent. Please, come to the office as soon as you can."

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line before Chris spoke again, his tone firm. "No, Paul. I'm not coming back early from my vacation. Whatever it is, it can wait until I return."

Paul's jaw tightened as he listened to Chris's response, a sense of frustration building within him. He glanced at Dan, who raised an eyebrow in silent inquiry.

Breaking the silence, Paul spoke again, his voice steady but firm. "Chris, I understand that you're on vacation, but this is important. I need you to come to the office."

There was another pause, and then Chris spoke, his voice tinged with irritation. "No, Paul. I'm not coming back. You'll have to handle whatever it is without me."

Paul sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose as he processed Chris's refusal. Glancing at Dan, who watched him intently, Paul shook his head slightly, indicating the difficulty of the situation.

"Alright, Chris," Paul said, his tone resigned. "I understand. We'll talk when you get back from vacation."

With that, he ended the call, setting the phone back on its cradle with a sense of frustration.

Paul glanced at Dan, who shook his head slightly, indicating his belief that Chris wouldn't be returning any time soon. With a heavy sigh, Paul reached for the phone once again, dialing Chris's extension with a sense of resignation.

After several rings, there was still no answer. Paul frowned, realizing that Chris might be deliberately avoiding the call. Nevertheless, he dialed again, hoping that Chris would pick up this time.

Finally, on the third attempt, Chris answered, his voice curt. "What is it, Paul?"

"Chris, I need to talk to you about your contract," Paul began, his tone sombre. "Unfortunately, due to recent developments, we've had to terminate your contract with immediate effect."

There was a moment of stunned silence on the other end of the line before Chris responded, his voice incredulous. "What? You can't do that!"

"I understand, Chris," Paul replied, his tone firm but sympathetic. "But we can't afford to wait until you return. We need to move forward with the club's plans, and your refusal to cooperate has left us with no choice but to do this over the phone."

Chris sputtered in protest, but Paul remained resolute. "I'm sorry, Chris, but this decision is final. We'll send you the details of your termination and any relevant paperwork shortly."

With that, Paul ended the call, feeling a mixture of sadness and relief at having resolved the situation, albeit under less than ideal circumstances. He glanced at Dan, who offered him a supportive nod, understanding the difficulty of the decision they had just made.