Harry Kane's new coach? Roberto De Zerbi confirms Brighton departure as Bayern Munich make Italian top candidate to replace Thomas Tuchel

The Premier League club announced on Saturday that the club's clash against Manchester United on May 19 will be the final game of the Italian coach. The 44-year-old took charge of the Seagulls in September 2022 after Graham Potter left for Chelsea. Under his tutelage, the club finished sixth in the 2022-23 campaign - their highest-ever top-flight finish and also reached the round of 16 of the Europa League.

De Zerbi has been linked with a move to several clubs, however, Christian Falk reports that he could head to Germany and join Bayern Munich ahead of the 2024-25 season. Bayern sporting Max Eberl has reportedly identified the Brighton coach as his first choice to appoint as Thomas Tuchel's replacement.

Speaking to the club's official website, the outgoing Brighton boss said: "I am very sad to be leaving Brighton, but I am very proud of what my players and staff have achieved with the support of everyone at the club and our amazing fans in the past two historical seasons. We have agreed to end my time at Brighton so that the club and I can continue to work in the way that suits each of us best, following our own ideas and visions, as well as our work and human values.

"I have really enjoyed an intense and challenging two years working in the Premier League, not least competing in four major competitions this season. Leaving now provides me with time to take a break before deciding on my future plans."

The Seagulls, who have won just once in their last nine league outings, will aim to end the season with a win and give a fitting farewell to their manager on Sunday against United at Amex Stadium.