For a bit of fun in the meantime, we fired up the latest edition of Football Manager, and simulated the game beyond the summer and into the future. We had a look at the starting XI, key subs and manager it predicts will be on show for the Seagulls on the opening day of the 2020/21 season.
5. CB: Adam Webster
The big-money signing beats off competition from Shane Duffy and Dan Burn to start alongside Dunk, after shutting out the likes of Hertha Berlin and Braga in a fine pre-season.(Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: GLYN KIRK
6. LB: Ola Aina
Off the back of a glittering campaign with Torino, the former Chelsea prospect is brought back to England in a £12m deal. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) Photo: Valerio Pennicino
7. CM: Bryan Heynen
It's another new signing, as the new manager (yep, more on that later!) splashes the cash. Heynen is the latest talent to join the Premier League from KRC Genk. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) Photo: Catherine Ivill
8. CM: Aaron Mooy
The bargain signing is paired alongside the Belgian, and will be looking to dictate the play with his trademark precision passing. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) Photo: Dan Mullan