Confirmed: Brighton announce signing of ‘excellent’ Liverpool midfielder after FSG prevent new deal

Harry Watkinson 14 Jun 2023 3:19 PM

Brighton and Hove Albion have announced the signing of veteran Liverpool midfielder James Milner on a free transfer.

The 37-year-old was reportedly offered a contract extension by Jurgen Klopp, but this offer was knocked back by the Reds’ hierarchy.

Milner’s departure leaves behind a successful legacy at Liverpool. In total, the England international won seven major trophies with the Merseyside club, including a Premier League and Champions League title.

During his career, he has enjoyed stints at Leeds United, Swindon Town, Aston Villa, Newcastle and Manchester City.

With the latter, he won five major trophies, including two Premier League titles.

As reported by TEAMtalk, Milner was offered a contract extension by Klopp. However, this offer was allegedly overruled by FSG – Liverpool’s owners.

Now, he is set to embark on a new and possibly final stage of his career, with high-flying Brighton. He has signed a one-year deal with the club.

So, it will be interesting to see if he will go out on a high with the Seagulls, who will be playing in the Europa League for the first time in their history next season.

De Zerbi: Milner an ‘excellent addition’

Milner’s impending arrival at the Amex has been announced on Brighton’s official website. Manager Roberto de Zerbi, along with technical director David Weir, have given their reaction to the deal.

De Zerbi said: “I’m very glad to welcome James to Brighton. He’s an excellent addition for us and I’m sure he will help to bring us to an even higher level.”

Weir added: “We are delighted that James has agreed to join us after a hugely successful period at Liverpool.

“His experience speaks for itself with the amount of games he has played and the trophies he has won throughout a decorated career.

“These games include European competition, which will be of huge value to us as we embark on our first season in Europe.

“We’re looking forward to working with James when the players return for pre-season.”

With Milner’s departure from Liverpool confirmed, it will be interesting to see who Liverpool replace him with.

For instance, Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone is close to agreeing on a switch to Anfield.

Of course, the Reds have already brought in Brighton midfielder Alexis Mac Allister on a £35m deal, too. So, it’s a case of one out, one in for De Zerbi.

Liverpool James Milner