Gabby George is closing in on a move from Manchester United to Brighton, with a six-figure fee expected to be agreed before the Women's Super League season begins in September (BBC Sport).

The defender has a year remaining on her United contract after the club activated an extension clause in January, but Brighton are confident of prising her away with the promise of regular first-team football. George joined United from Everton in 2023, when United triggered a £150,000 release clause to bring her across the north-west divide (BBC Sport). Now, three years and over 50 appearances later, she looks set for the south coast.

George's time at United has been a mix of high points and frustration. She was part of the squad that won the Women's FA Cup in 2024, the club's first major trophy in the women's game. But a knee injury suffered in November 2023 sidelined her long-term, and with United now navigating a period of significant change, she is seeking a fresh start where minutes are more guaranteed.

United confirmed on Monday that manager Marc Skinner had left his role by mutual consent (BBC Sport). Skinner's departure and George's likely exit are separate threads, but together they paint a picture of a squad in transition with the new WSL campaign weeks away.

For George, the move represents a chance to rebuild momentum at a club on the rise under Dario Vidosic. The Brighton manager has already been busy this summer, adding Switzerland captain Lia Walti and Norwegian midfielder Emilie Joramo from Swedish side Hammarby. George would be the latest piece in a squad that finished seventh in the WSL last season and opens the new campaign at home to Arsenal on Sunday, 6 September.

Before United, George graduated from Everton's academy and racked up over 100 appearances for her childhood club. She has three senior England caps and earned a recall to Sarina Wiegman's squad in November 2024 — her first international call-up in two years (manutd.com). Regular club football at Brighton would strengthen her case to add to that tally.

What makes this move appealing for both sides is the fit. George, still only in her mid-twenties, brings top-flight experience, international pedigree, and the versatility to play across the back line. Brighton, under Vidosic, are building something ambitious — signing a proven WSL winner signals intent to push higher than last season's seventh-place finish. For George, the pitch is simple: play every week, stay in the England conversation, and help a growing club punch above its weight.

Neither club has confirmed the deal publicly, and the final fee and personal terms are still being worked through. But the expectation from all sides is that George will be a Brighton player by the time the season kicks off.