Roberto De Zerbi got straight down to work when he knew there was a chance to take over at Albion.

He spent last weekend studying their recent matches, preparing for the call.

Initial contact was made via a third party.

Michele Criscitiello, chief executive of SportItalia and a long-time friend of De Zerbi, told The Argus at the time: “He is watching all of Brighton’s matches.

“If the club confirmed concrete interest, he would accept to come.”

Albion will have had several names in mind at that stage.

But De Zerbi was their main target.

The deal was sealed over the last couple of days during a trip to England which included a first visit to the Amex.

He saw a low-key private friendly against, ironically, Chelsea squad members coached by his predecessor Graham Potter.

In the statement to confirm De Zerbi’s appointment on a four-year-deal, Albion deputy chairman and chief executive Paul Barber said: “We looked at a range of excellent candidates but Roberto was our number one choice from the start and the only person we spoke to.

“It’s no secret our chairman is constantly monitoring potential coaches, both here in our domestic leagues, throughout Europe and across the world as part of our succession planning work.

“We feel Roberto is the ideal cultural and technical fit for Brighton and Hove Albion, and the right person to continue the club’s progress and work with this outstanding group of players.”