Florian Grillitsch, the Austrian defensive-midfielder, is being monitored by a few European clubs for a potential move – specifically because he is a free agent.
Having spent almost six years in the German topflight and making 178 Bundesliga appearances, Florian Grillitsch is on his way out of Germany – seeking a new experience altogether. Reportedly, many European clubs had been keeping tabs on Austrian’s situation at Hoffenheim. Now that his contract has expired and he is a free agent, those “interested clubs” are pushing to sign him this summer.
Until the beginning of July, the Austrian was being linked to a move to Galatasaray. So much so that the media outlets believed the Turkish Giants to be the prime destination for Grillitsch this summer. However, like most transfer sagas, this one isn’t different either in a way that there is no end to the links and rumours – even Arsenal got linked to the talented defensive midfielder a couple of weeks ago.
Now, another such twist has come up in this saga- according to the reports from The Telegraph (via The Sun), Brighton & Hove Albion have made advanced talks with Florian Grillitsch’s representatives for a potential move to the Premier League.
Brighton are in talks over an audacious move for Austria midfielder Florian Grillitsch as a free agent from under the noses of top European clubs. #Arsenal had looked at the 26yr-old after his #TSG Hoffenheim contract expired #BHAFC @TeleFootball
— Mike McGrath (@mcgrathmike) July 21, 2022
Trusted Journalist Mike McGrath even reported that the Gunners might be in for a shock after a sudden show of interest from the Seagulls.
Grillitsch: the Austrian Lucas Leiva!
Talking about Florian Grillitsch and his playing style, at first glance there is a strong resemblance to Lucas Leiva – especially from the days when the Brazilian veteran was playing for Liverpool.
The Austrian has a tall figure, akin to the Brazilian, that helps him win those key Aerial duels- be it in the defence or while attacking. Apart from possessing a towering physique, Grillitsch is also very much comfortable with the ball at his feet. Such a wide physical appearance and strength allow him to shield the ball from the imminent press and also help retain the possession. Thus, making the Austrian resistant to high pressing.
Moreover, Grillitsch is a machine when it comes to running down the lengths of the pitch for the entirety of the game. The tall legs do help, along with the excellent breathing technique that the Austrian has mastered. In turn, this helps Grillitsch maintain box-to-box high-intensity gameplay.
Likewise, Manchester United‘s new signing, Lisandro Martinez, Florian Grillitsch is also versatile. He can operate as a central midfielder, a defensive midfielder or even as a centre-back, while also justifying his selection at each of the positions.
“In my eyes, Flo Grillitsch is one of the best six-men in the Bundesliga, who is already running a bit under the radar. At least you rarely read anything about him.” Hoffenheim’s former manager, Julian Nagelsmann, said this when asked about the 26-year-old’s progress.
Author’s Opinion
With Bissouma’s transfer to Spurs, Graham Potter would be missing the spark as well as the creativity in the midfield. Although the English manager has kept his composure without outwardly showing much concern about losing his Mali midfielder, there is obviously a sense of insecurity within of having a relatively weak midfield.
This is where someone of Grillitsch’s demeanour could prove to be an asset to the squad. The Austrian is an experienced top-flight campaigner, and if Brighton could get their hands on the player this summer then they could surely substantiate the fact that they have moved on from the loss of Bissouma to some extent.
