Pascal Gross has been told the big part he can play for Albion’s new head coach from Germany.

Fabian Huerzeler met the midfielder on his trip to England last December.

He has also spoken to all squad members since being appointed as successor to Roberto De Zerbi.

Gross, currently with the national team at Euro 2024, is of interest to Borussia Dortmund as he heads into what would be the final season of his current Albion contract.

But the Seagulls are looking to keep him, ideally on a new deal.

As with Germany striker Deniz Undav, they are keen to point out Gross remains contractually committed to them.

Huerzeler said: “I had some talks with Pascal, of course. He is a very important player.

“I expressed, I think, my biggest appreciation I have for him and let’s see what the future brings.”

Albion have a lot of decisions to make over playing staff, be it existing members of the squad, those returning from loans or potential new signings.

One piece slotted into place yesterday as it was announced Kjell Scherpen will return to Sturm Graz on loan next season.

The Dutch goalkeeper impressed with Sturm in the first half of last season, including in the Europa League, before being sidelined by knee surgery.

With Bart Verbruggen and Tom McGill going into the knockout stages of international tournaments, it appears there will be chance for James Beadle and Carl Rushworth to impress in pre-season.

Albion technical director David Weir said: “Another season in Austria will serve Kjell well.

“We’re looking forward to seeing him continue to progress, as well as get the opportunity to play in the Champions League.”

Meanwhile Harry Mills and Charlie Tasker have signed their first professional contracts with the club.

They are both 18-year-old defenders who have been at the club for ten years and will be with the under-21s in the coming campaign.