But Fabian Hurzeler believes he will see him back on a pitch.
The injury-hit defender is moving in when his current contract expires at the end of next month.
He spent the entire 2025-26 season recovering from a knee injury suffered in pre-season in Marbella last July
Webster was in discussions for an England call at his peak as a strong defender who could also make good use of possession.
He produced some of his best form in the second half of Hurzeler’s first season in charge as the Seagulls finished eighth in the Premier Leag
Head coach Hurzeler said: “During the time we had together I will never forget what you did for us, especially last season in a tough period
You stepped up as a great leader. You stepped up as a great person. You really showed our principles on the pitch and beside the pitch.
“You have a great positivity in your character, and that always makes a team run, makes a team work hard and makes a team successful.
“Unfortunately in pre-season you had a tough moment with this big injury, but I know that you will come back stronger.
“Rehab feels lonely sometimes, but I want you to know that you should never feel lonely because you have so many people here in Brighton – in the team, players and staff – who will be there for you, who will support you even when you’re not here anymore.
