Graham Potter has made an honest admission regarding Billy Gilmour's move from Chelsea to Brighton during the summer transfer window.
The Scotland international was keen to play under Potter, making a permanent transfer from Chelsea to Brighton before the head coach moved to Stamford Bridge himself.
Gilmour was only part of the Brighton squad for one match under the Englishman before Thomas Tuchel was dismissed by Chelsea.
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Todd Boehly and his fellow Chelsea owners identified Potter as their priority target and acted to bring in the 47-year-old, much to the disappointment of Gilmour.
With Levi Colwill already on loan on the south coast, a loan for Gilmour wasn't possible and Chelsea sold him without a buy-back clause.
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Potter has now opened up on the decision to move to Chelsea, the club where Gilmour left to join him, and discussed the midfielder's disappointment with his departure.
As quoted by football.london, Potter said: "I think the uncomfortable bit about it is the timing of my opportunity here so close after the window closed."
The head coach continued to wish Gilmour well and admit that he wishes him well.
READ MORE: Graham Potter relishing ‘crazy’ Chelsea fixture schedule ahead of World Cup
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He concluded: "That's never ideal. It's part of life in football but obviously I wish him well.
"My first impressions of him were that he's a top lad, a really good guy and we know the talent he's got.
"Hopefully, fingers crossed, he can do well there."
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If he does well, Chelsea could look to bring Gilmour back in the future.
However, without a buy-back clause, Chelsea could struggle in negotiations if they are to ever look to bring Gilmour back.
The Blues previously opted to include a sell on clause in the sale of Marc Guehi to Crystal Palace.
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In Tino Livramento and Tammy Abraham's sales, the club included buy-back clauses, handing them an advantage in future transfer windows.
With Colwill returning in the summer from his loan spell, Potter will reunite with a player he was keep to bring to Brighton.
For now, the head coach will look to finish the season strong at Chelsea and qualify for the Champions League once again.
Topics: Chelsea, Billy Gilmour, Brighton And Hove Albion, Graham Potter, Football, Transfers, Premier League
Nick Emms