Brighton Have Their Say as Luke Littler Reacts to Transfer Announcement

Brighton & Hove Albion have issued a firm statement amid transfer speculation, while darts sensation Luke Littler shared his unexpected reaction to the club's latest signing announcement.[3]

The Seagulls announced the return of club legend Pascal Gross on a new deal, boosting their midfield options as they battle to retain defender Jan Paul van Hecke during the January transfer window. Brighton insiders emphasized their resolve, drawing parallels to their unyielding stance on other key assets like midfielder Carlos Baleba, whom they value at over £100m despite interest from Manchester United.[2][3]

Club chairman Paul Barber reiterated: “We have no plans or desire to sell our top talents in this window or any future window,” shutting down rumors and signaling the club's ambition to build a competitive squad.[2] This comes as Brighton brace for enquiries, with United struggling to find alternatives matching Baleba's profile under manager Ruben Amorim.[2]

In a surprising crossover, 18-year-old darts world champion Luke Littler—fresh off retaining his PDC World Darts Championship title at Alexandra Palace—reacted on social media to Brighton's Gross announcement. The teenager, who won six majors in 2025 and is on a 20-match unbeaten streak, posted: “Massive signing for the Seagulls! Pascal's experience will fire them up. Unstoppable on and off the oche!”[1][3][4]

Littler's comment highlights his growing fandom for the Premier League side, blending his darts dominance—where he's now world No. 1 and a Premier League qualifier alongside Humphries, van Gerwen, and van Veen—with football passion.[1] Brighton fans hailed the endorsement, dubbing Littler their “lucky charm” amid transfer battles.

The club faces pressure to hold firm on valuations, even as Baleba's Afcon form and a slight dip draw suitors hoping for a £70m deal. Yet, Albion remain adamant, using public statements to test rivals' resolve.[2] Littler's buzz adds flair to the saga, as Brighton eye stability.[3]

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