Brighton & Hove Albion are on the verge of completing an emotional return for one of their modern-day icons, with midfielder Pascal Gross set to re-join the club from Borussia Dortmund this month.
A Seagulls Legend Makes His Return
According to a report from The Athletic, the Seagulls have agreed a deal to bring the 34-year-old German back to the Amex Stadium. The agreement will see Brighton pay just under €2 million (£1.74m), with potential add-ons taking the total fee higher. Dortmund have reportedly granted Gross permission to travel to England to undergo a medical.
Gross originally joined Brighton from FC Ingolstadt in May 2017 for £3 million, a club-record fee at the time, making him their first-ever Premier League signing. He spent seven highly successful seasons on the south coast, making 261 appearances, scoring 32 goals, and providing 52 assists.
Versatile Performer and Fan Favourite
Renowned for his reliability and tactical intelligence, Gross became a firm fan favourite under several managers. His versatility was a key asset, as he was deployed effectively on the wing, at right-back, left-back, and in central midfield.
His consistent performances for Brighton were ultimately rewarded with a maiden call-up to the Germany national team in September 2023. He left the club in the summer of 2024 to fulfil a boyhood dream, joining Borussia Dortmund for around £8 million.
However, his playing time has become limited at Signal Iduna Park this season, prompting the move. Despite falling down the pecking order, he has still made 65 appearances for the German giants.
An Emotional Homecoming
Gross's departure 17 months ago was marked by a heartfelt farewell letter to supporters, in which he described leaving with a "heavy heart". He credited the club with giving him the platform to earn his Germany cap and expressed his enduring love for Brighton.
He also held the club record for most Premier League goals (30) until Danny Welbeck surpassed him in April 2024. Gross spoke proudly of captaining the side in Lewis Dunk's absence and representing the club in Europe and at Wembley.
His return will be seen as a major boost for head coach Fabian Hurzeler, who gains an experienced, technically gifted player who understands the club inside out. For the fans, it represents the return of a true club legend who never hid his affection for the Seagulls.
