**Brighton & Hove Albion Signs Algerian Left-Back Jaouen Hadjam**
Brighton & Hove Albion has officially announced the signing of Algerian defender Jaouen Hadjam from Swiss champions Young Boys. The transfer, confirmed on August 26, 2026, involves an undisclosed fee and secures Hadjam's services until 2031.
The Premier League club revealed the signing through a creative video that featured Hadjam enjoying mint tea in a café, highlighting the player's North African heritage. The addition of Hadjam is seen as a significant move for Brighton, further strengthening their defensive lineup.
Hadjam, 23, has made a name for himself in European football, having made 98 appearances for Young Boys since his transfer from Ligue 1 club Nantes in 2024. His time at Young Boys has been marked by consistent performances, contributing to the club's success in the Swiss league. Prior to his stint in Switzerland, Hadjam developed his skills at the youth academy of Paris Saint-Germain, one of Europe's most prestigious clubs.
Internationally, Hadjam has represented Algeria since switching allegiance from France in 2023. He has earned 21 caps for the national team and was part of Algeria's squad during the FIFA World Cup 2026, where he played in three of the team's four matches. His experience on the international stage is expected to add depth and resilience to Brighton's defense.
Hadjam joins a growing list of Algerian players in the Premier League, including Manchester City's Rayan Ait-Nouri and Hull City's Mohamed El Bachir Belloumi. The most notable Algerian player in recent Premier League history is Riyad Mahrez, who enjoyed a successful career with Leicester City and Manchester City, winning numerous titles and accolades.
Brighton has started their current league campaign on a high note, achieving a commanding 4-0 victory against Europa League holders Aston Villa in their opening match. The club will be looking to build on this momentum with the addition of Hadjam, who is expected to make an immediate impact in the squad.
As Brighton prepares for the challenges ahead in the Premier League, Hadjam's signing is seen as a strategic move to enhance their competitive edge. The club's management and fans alike will be eager to see how the young defender integrates into the team and contributes to their ambitions for the season.