Brighton have appointed 31-year-old Fabian Hurzeler as their new head coach, becoming the youngest permanent manager in Premier League history.

Hurzeler has agreed a three-year-contract with Brighton, succeeding Roberto De Zerbi.

Hurzeler became a leading candidate for the job following their data-led analysis and Brighton contacted St Pauli last Saturday to open negotiations regarding a compensation figure.

He guided St Pauli to promotion to the Bundesliga after winning last season’s Bundesliga 2 title.

Hurzeler said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be the new head coach of Brighton & Hove Albion.

“After speaking to Tony (Bloom), Paul (Barber) and David (Weir), it was clear that they are highly ambitious. The club has a unique history and bold vision for the future, so I am truly excited to be part of the project.

Brighton to appoint 31-year-old Hurzeler as coach

“The club has made incredible progress over the last few seasons and the aim is to continue building on that success. I am relishing the opportunity to coach in the Premier League, and I can’t wait to meet the players, staff and, of course, the fans.”

Brighton chairman Bloom said, “From the start of the process to appoint our new head coach, Fabian was always a standout candidate and one who had caught our attention with his exceptional work at St Pauli over the past 18 months.

“He has a style of play that aligns with how we want a Brighton & Hove Albion team to play, and I’m confident it is one our supporters will appreciate and enjoy.

“Fabian also has an excellent coaching pedigree and has worked with the German federation at various age group levels. We are really excited to start working with Fabian to prepare for the upcoming season.”

Sky Sports News reported that former Seagulls boss Graham Potter would not be returning for a second spell as head coach despite talks between him and the club.

The Englishman is now interested in Leicester with Potter on their shortlist to replace Enzo Maresca, who left the newly promoted side to become Chelsea boss.

Hurzeler will be presented to the media at a news conference on July 2.

The Star