The Mirror reports that Brighton & Hove Albion have turned down a sixth offer from Burnley for midfielder Dale Stephens. The Amex Stadium club have also turned down a transfer request from the former Charlton Athletic man, who is looking to seal a move to the top flight.
Sean Dyche is also hoping to swoop for Derby County’s Jeff Hendrick as well. He clearly is a fan of Stephens, who has been in and out of Chris Hughton’s starting eleven this season. The preferred pairing seems to be Beram Kayal and Steve Sidwell. Nevertheless, the club are adamant that he will not be leaving before the transfer deadline.
Brighton still believe Stephens will have a big role to play this season, even though the signing of Oliver Norwood from Reading further adds competition for places in the centre of midfield. Hughton wants big competition all across his squad and Stephens is definitely a part of his plans. The concern is that player power could force through a move, with Hughton possibly not keen on keeping a player that is so intent on departing.
Dyche now has a decision to make in if he will pursue a higher offer for Stephens in the hope of twisting Brighton’s arm to push through a deal.
