Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed the signing of James Milner, who will join on a one-year contract until June 2024, following the expiration of his contract on 30 June at Liverpool.
The Premier League veteran has spent eight years at Anfield, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, amongst other trophies during his time there.
The 37-year-old will be a valuable asset to The Seagulls, with his versatility and experience allowing him to play in several positions across the defence and midfield, a crucial factor for Roberto De Zerbi as he will look to balance the squad’s minutes between Premier League and Europa League football.
Speaking to the club’s website about the signing, the Italian head coach stated “I’m very glad to Welcome James to Brighton. He’s an excellent addition for us and I’m sure he will help bring us to an even higher level.”
Milner, who has the third most appearances in Premier League history with 619, has been further praised by former teammate Adam Lallana, who also plays at the Amex Stadium. The 35-year-old claimed he “defines the word professionalism” and that will have a “massive impact” on the South Coast side next season.
The Englishman’s arrival from Merseyside follows Argentinian World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister’s move in the other direction, which saw him join Jürgen Klopp’s side for a fee of £35m after an impressive year of performances for Brighton.
Furthermore, as per Fabrizio Romano, this is just the first of two free signings which Albion are set to make, with the aquisition of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud also set to be announced following the expiration of the 27-year-old’s contract this summer.
Meanwhile, the future of the talented Moisés Caicedo still remains uncertain, with three top clubs said to be in the race after De Zerbi promising the Ecuadorian in January that he could leave the side summer, should a good proposal come in.
