Xherdan Shaqiri Deal to Brighton Could Be Delayed Amid Contract and Fitness Concerns
Football Correspondent
Brighton & Hove Albion’s proposed move for Swiss international Xherdan Shaqiri may be delayed, with sources close to the negotiations confirming that contract details and fitness assessments are still under review. While both parties remain optimistic about reaching an agreement, the club has not set a timeline for finalizing the deal — raising questions about whether the veteran midfielder will be unveiled in time for the start of preseason.
Shaqiri, 32, currently plays for Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer (MLS), where he has been a marquee signing since 2022. The former Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and Stoke City playmaker had been targeted by Brighton as an experienced addition to a young squad ahead of a crucial transitional season under new manager Fabian Hürzeler.
Transfer Talks Underway — But Not Final
The initial reports of Brighton’s interest in Shaqiri surfaced earlier this month, with negotiations believed to be at an advanced stage. The player, who has publicly expressed his desire to return to top-flight European football, was reportedly enthusiastic about the prospect of returning to the Premier League.
“England was always a special place for me,” Shaqiri told Swiss outlet Blick last week. “The pace, the fans, the atmosphere — if the opportunity is right, I’m ready.”
Despite positive personal terms being agreed in principle, sources close to Brighton’s board have confirmed that key elements of the deal — particularly contract duration, salary structure, and release clauses — are still being evaluated. Shaqiri is believed to be requesting a two-year deal with an option for a third, while Brighton are leaning toward a more cautious, incentive-heavy one-year contract given his age and recent injury history.
Fitness Record Raises Flags
A significant factor contributing to the delay is Shaqiri’s fitness record over the past 18 months. Although he remains one of the most technically gifted players in the MLS, his time in Chicago has been hampered by minor muscle injuries and a lack of consistent match sharpness.
Brighton’s medical team has not yet completed their full review of the player’s medical records, and club insiders suggest that any final agreement will be contingent upon passing a rigorous physical assessment once Shaqiri is in England.
“We admire what Shaqiri has achieved in his career,” said a club source. “But Brighton has built its recent success on intensity, pressing, and fitness. We must ensure any addition aligns with those standards.”
Brighton’s Summer Strategy: Experience Meets Youth
The potential signing of Shaqiri fits into a broader strategy from Brighton to add experience to a side known for its emerging talents. Following the departures of key players such as Pascal Groß and Adam Lallana, the Seagulls are keen to blend their exciting young prospects with proven leadership — especially as they transition to a new tactical approach under Hürzeler.
Having previously managed in the 2. Bundesliga with FC St. Pauli, the German coach is expected to implement a high-tempo, tactically fluid system. Shaqiri’s versatility — capable of playing as a central attacking midfielder, winger, or deep-lying playmaker — makes him an appealing option, particularly off the bench or in rotation.
Still, there is an understanding within the club that Shaqiri may not feature in every game and would need to adapt quickly to Brighton’s pressing demands after several seasons in slower-paced environments.
Fan Reaction: Cautious Optimism
The news of Brighton’s interest in Shaqiri initially drew excitement from sections of the fanbase, especially those who remember his dazzling goals and performances in the Premier League. However, the potential delay and growing concern over his physical condition have led some supporters to question whether the move aligns with the club’s forward-looking philosophy.
On social media, user @SeagullStats posted:
“Shaqiri on a short deal makes sense — bags of experience, still got the magic. But let’s not repeat the mistakes of bringing in big names past their peak.”
Others were more hopeful, with @AlbionUltra writing:
“This is exactly the kind of spark we need in the dressing room. We’ve got the legs — now we need some brains and firepower.”
Chicago Fire Open to Negotiation
Chicago Fire are said to be cooperative with the move, as Shaqiri has expressed a desire to return to Europe. With his contract set to expire at the end of the year, the MLS club would be amenable to letting him go for a modest fee or even a mutual termination, depending on how talks with Brighton unfold.
“Xherdan has been a great ambassador for our club,” said Fire head coach Frank Klopas. “If Europe is where he wants to go, and the situation is right for all sides, we’ll support him.”
What’s Next?
Shaqiri is currently on international duty with Switzerland ahead of Euro 2024, and Brighton are reportedly waiting until the conclusion of the tournament before finalizing any potential transfer. If a deal is agreed, the player would likely join up with the squad during their preseason tour in Austria this July.
Until then, Brighton will continue their due diligence, balancing the allure of Shaqiri’s experience with the realities of risk and reward in the Premier League.
Final Word
While the move is far from dead, the deal to bring Xherdan Shaqiri to Brighton has entered a delicate phase. With both sides still interested, fans can remain hopeful — but realistic — as the club weighs its options. For now, Brighton are playing it smart: looking to add a spark, but only if the conditions are just right.
