Manchester United may have found their next left-back. Brighton star Pervis Estupiñán has publicly confirmed he’s been granted “freedom” to assess offers this summer — fuelling talk of a switch to Old Trafford.
After Ecuador’s World Cup qualifying draw with Peru, Estupiñán told local media, “The club know that I would like to grow... they have given me this bit of freedom to be able to make a decision.” That admission comes as reports continue linking the 27-year-old to Manchester United, who are expected to overhaul their defence this summer.
Estupiñán, a key figure at Brighton since 2022, has played over 100 games for the Seagulls. He remains under contract until 2027 but is expected to cost in the region of £35m–£40m.
Brighton Braced for Defensive Shake-Up
Should Estupiñán leave, Brighton will need to act fast. Their current depth at left-back is patchy — with Tariq Lamptey, Jack Hinshelwood, and centre-backs Erin Cashin and Igor Julio all potential short-term options but none offering Estupiñán’s thrust and width.
“We want to keep building, but we also respect when players want to grow,”.
Argentina’s Valentin Barco is unlikely to stay — expected to join Strasbourg permanently — and Brighton are reportedly eyeing Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters on a free transfer as a versatile replacement.
Why United Want Estupiñán
Estupiñán’s experience, explosive pace, and attacking threat make him an ideal candidate to challenge or even replace Luke Shaw. Amorim's side struggled for consistency on the left side of defence in 2024/25 — injuries and form issues leaving a gap that Estupiñán could fill with immediate effect.
His 2023/24 numbers may seem modest (1 goal, 1 assist in 30 PL games), but Brighton’s system and deep build-up often limited full-back output. Estupiñán's underlying metrics in ball progression, defensive duels, and dribbles remain among the best in the league.
Brighton’s Full-Back Options Without Estupiñán
| Player | Natural Position | Left Back Capable? |
|---|---|---|
| Tariq Lamptey | Right Back | Yes, but prefers right |
| Jack Hinshelwood | Midfielder | Only in emergency |
| Igor Julio | Centre Back | Yes, but defensively minded |
| Valentín Barco | Left Back | Set for move to Strasbourg |
| Kyle Walker-Peters (target) | Full Back | Yes |
Key Bullet Callouts
- Estupiñán wants to “keep growing” — United in pole position
- Brighton ready to cash in for £40m
- Walker-Peters eyed as versatile full-back fix
- Amorim seeking more athleticism in wide defence
- Valentín Barco likely to exit for Strasbourg
What’s Next for Brighton and United?
Expect movement soon. Brighton may act before Estupiñán officially leaves, while Manchester United could ramp up talks post-Euro 2024. With Shaw’s reliability in doubt and Tyrell Malacia’s future uncertain, Estupiñán fits the Red Devils’ profile perfectly.
Will Estupiñán become United’s next full-back star or stay to help Brighton rebuild under Hurzeler?
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