Brighton bid lodged for Stephens

If Dale Stephens doesn’t play at Doncaster tonight then we will know that his move to Brighton is imminent. Transfer talks are said to be advanced and the club may decide to cash in on the midfielder before his contract runs out. A year ago Tony Jimenez turned down a bid of £1.5m to keep Aston Villa away from one of our prized assets, but then never offered Dale a new contract despite putting a price of £2.5m on his head.

The legacy of Jimenez and Slater is really coming home to roost with Bournemouth also tabling an offer for Yann Kermorgant and rumoured to be interested in Rhoys Wiggins, whilst Michael Morrison has also attracted interest.

Stephens leaving would not come as a surprise, except that he was said to be homesick and last time I looked Brighton wasn’t anywhere near Bolton, not unless you use the Robbie Savage guide to geography. This has been Stephens best season in a red shirt and Oscar Garcia will be mindful that Liam Bridcutt is on the verge of moving to Sunderland for excess of £2m. Garcia’s assistant is of course Nathan Jones, who will know Stephens well.

According to Chris Powell contract talks have been held, but have been hindered by games and travelling. The remainder of this week is absolutely crucial for the Addicks.