Brighton could name the youngest manager in Premier League history by adding the 31-year-old to the list

Brighton are actively exploring a shock move to make 31-year-old Fabian Hurzeler the Premier League's youngest manager, talkSPORT understands.

American-born Hurzeler, currently in charge of German minnows St. Pauli, features prominently in Seagulls owner Tony Bloom's data-driven search for Roberto De Zerbi's successor.

Brighton has also spoken to Graham Potter about a possible return, but as talkSPORT previously reported, that is not a likely option.

Potter is believed to be keeping his options open should Gareth Southgate resign. England after the next euros.

The Seagulls were interested in Kieran McKenna before he signed a new contract at Ipswich.

Hurzeler guided St Pauli to promotion to the Bundesliga after a 13-year hiatus, having taken over just 18 months ago.

He previously spent four years at German amateur side FC Pipinsried, which presented him with his first coaching opportunity.

Malmo manager Henrik Rydstrom is also believed to be on Brighton's shortlist, having guided the club to the Swedish title last season.

Both Hurzeler and Rydstrom would need to obtain a work permit before taking over at Amex Stadium, which may not be a simple process.

Hurzeler, who was born in Houston, TexasHe has never coached in the top flight, but he will achieve it next season, whether in the Premier League or the Bundesliga.

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He took charge of St Pauli in December 2022, when the Hamburg club was above the relegation zone in Bundesliga 2.

His presence had an immediate impact, as St Pauli won their first ten games under Hurzeler's watch, eventually finishing fifth.

The American capped off a sensational 18 months guiding his team to the title with empathy.

Hurzeler has also worked as assistant manager of the German under-18 and under-20 teams.

Due to his success as a young coach in Germany, Hurzeler has been compared to the current head of the national team. Julian Nagelsmann.

However, speaking earlier this year, he said: “It wouldn't be fair to him (to be compared) because he is an incredible coach.

“Of course, I always hear those comparisons with Julian Nagelsmann. But like I said, I must be humble and follow my own path.

“I can't do it the same way because it's Julian Nagelsmann's style, and I try to follow Fabian Hürzeler's style.”

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