Brighton & Hove Albion have reportedly rejected a £7.5 million offer from Rangers for winger Amario Cozier-Duberry.
The Scottish Premiership club remain interested in signing the 21-year-old, but Albion’s decision to turn down their second proposal suggests a considerably higher valuation.
Cozier-Duberry joined Brighton on a free transfer after leaving Arsenal in 2024, signing a four-year contract. Although he has yet to make a competitive first-team appearance for the Seagulls, he enhanced his reputation during an impressive loan spell with Bolton Wanderers last season.
The England youth international scored eight goals and supplied ten assists in 34 League One appearances, helping Bolton secure promotion to the Championship. His performances have subsequently attracted interest from clubs in England and elsewhere in Europe.
Rangers seeking another attacker
Rangers are looking to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes. Their need has become more pressing following the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by Youssef Chermiti during a 2-1 Premiership defeat against Hibernian.
Manager Derek McInnes has already overseen extensive changes to his squad, but another winger remains among the club’s priorities.
Reports suggest Rangers have not abandoned their pursuit of Cozier-Duberry and could return with an improved offer. However, Brighton are under no immediate pressure to sell, with the player still having almost two years remaining on his contract.
West Ham United, Leeds United and Hull City have also been linked with the winger, while several Championship clubs are reportedly interested in taking him on loan.
Brighton hold the advantage
Cozier-Duberry has featured regularly during Brighton’s pre-season preparations under head coach Fabian Hürzeler. His involvement indicates that Albion have not ruled out retaining him as part of the first-team squad.
Competition for places in Brighton’s wide attacking positions remains considerable, meaning another loan could still provide the regular football required for his development. A permanent transfer would nevertheless represent a significant profit on a player acquired without a fee.
That calculation is central to Brighton’s recruitment model: signing promising young players, developing them and refusing to sell until their valuation is met.
Interest from several clubs strengthens Albion’s negotiating position. Rangers may make another attempt before the deadline, but unless their offer increases substantially, Brighton appear prepared to retain Cozier-Duberry or arrange another loan rather than accept £7.5 million.
