Hadjam Secures Five-Year Deal with Brighton for £9.5 Million

Algerian international left-back Jaouen Hadjam has officially completed his transfer to English Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. The 23-year-old joins the Seagulls from Swiss club Young Boys on a five-year contract, with the transfer fee reported to be in the region of £9.5 million. This significant move sees a prominent Algerian athlete join a top European league.

Hadjam, who moved to Switzerland in January 2024, made 98 competitive appearances for Young Boys. During his 73 top-flight Swiss Super League fixtures, he directly contributed to 13 goals, scoring six and providing seven assists. Brighton technical director Mike Cave expressed enthusiasm about the defender's arrival, noting his tactical fit. "We believe Jaouen will be a great addition to the group, adding to our already strong options in defence," Cave stated. "He is a modern left-back known for his pace, attacking output and technical abilities, which fits our style of play well. He has proven himself to be a versatile player in Switzerland, and we are looking forward to working with him."

On the international stage, Hadjam committed his senior international future to Algeria in 2023, after previously representing France at youth level. The full-back has since earned 21 senior caps and participated in this year's World Cup, where the Algerian national team, known as the Desert Warriors, reached the round of 32 before exiting against Switzerland. His arrival at Brighton is expected to intensify competition on the left side of the defence, where he will vie for starting positions.

Hadjam is set to join his new teammates for first-team training, aiming for a rapid adjustment to English football's physical demands. The coaching staff anticipate leveraging his match sharpness and international pedigree during an intensive schedule of Premier League and cup fixtures, viewing robust competition on the flanks as crucial for consistent team performance.