EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey TBR Football understands that Brighton & Hove Albion remain confident of keeping manager Roberto De Zerbi at the club, despite fresh interest in the Italian.

TBR sources have confirmed that Italian giants AC Milan have been making checks on De Zerbi including finding out the details of his release clause - which we understand is worth EUR15million (PS12million).

Milan are set to part company with current head coach Stefano Pioli and they have been assessing their options which include former PSG coach Christophe Galtier, and both Julen Lopetegui and Paulo Fonseca - who are on West Ham's shortlist to replace David Moyes.

However, TBR can now reveal Milan are considering De Zerbi - although his substantial clause is more than they would want to pay.

Brighton are hopeful of extending De Zerbi's current deal which extends to 2026 - but the Italian has insisted he is not ready to talk until the summer.

With the South Coasters languishing in the bottom half of the table and without European football for next season, the transfer budget will likely be impacted.

That may have a bearing on De Zerbi's decision to remain, especially having experienced a key departure in the last summer window.

Moises Caicedo's PS115m exit to Chelsea was against the Italian's wish - he wanted to keep him at The Amex.

So, perhaps previous transfer decisions have impacted his desire to stay and assurances from the board may be required for him to commit his long-term future.

A big summer awaits Brighton Uncertainty around De Zerbi's future is the last thing Brighton need.

It's become pretty evident this season that they need further additions in the transfer market to realise their top six aspirations.

But, as it stands, they can't begin the process of identifying and starting negotiations with transfer targets until they have further assurances on their manager's position.

Further, if Milan do stump up the money and activate his release clause, that will only add fuel to the fire.