Brighton Secures Two-Time Dutch Champion Olivier Boscagli on Five-Year Deal

Brighton & Hove Albion have signed French defender Olivier Boscagli on a five-year deal following the expiration of his contract at Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven. The 27-year-old, who can play both centre-back and left-back, made over 200 appearances for PSV, winning back-to-back Eredivisie titles, the KNVB Cup, and the Dutch Super Cup twice. Brighton's head coach Fabian Hurzeler praised Boscagli's versatility and experience, highlighting his importance to the squad. Dutch football expert Michael Statham noted Boscagli's leadership, ball-playing ability, and adaptability, though he acknowledged the challenge of adjusting to Brighton's deeper defensive style and less ball possession. Boscagli's arrival adds to Brighton's defensive options, creating competition with established centre-backs such as Lewis Dunk and Jan Paul van Hecke. The signing is seen as a significant statement by Brighton, bringing a player with Champions League and European experience to the Premier League on a free transfer.