Brighton secure Italian defender Diego Coppola on long-term deal

The 21-year-old joins the Premier League club on a five-year contract, with the transfer subject to the usual regulatory processes. The fee remains undisclosed.

Standing at an imposing 6ft 4in, Coppola brings a strong physical presence to Brighton's back line and arrives with significant top-flight experience.

He emerged through Verona's youth academy and has since made over 80 appearances in Serie A, scoring four goals along the way.

Coppola's development has also seen him rise through the national team ranks.

He earned his senior Italy debut in a World Cup qualifier against Norway earlier this month and made a second appearance as a substitute in a 2-0 friendly victory over Moldova.

Currently, he is on international duty with Italy's Under-21 side at the European Championship in Slovakia.

"Diego is an exciting addition for the club," said Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler.

"Although he is still young, he is tall, strong and mobile and he will give us a real physical presence.

"He has made impressive progress in Serie A and deserved his call-up to the Italian national team. We look forward to helping him develop even more."

Brighton's recruitment team continues to target young, high-potential players with international pedigree, and Coppola fits the bill perfectly.

His combination of youth, experience, and international exposure is seen as a major asset for the club as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season.