Ligue 1 club Paris FC has completed the permanent signing of Italian defender Diego Coppola from Premier League side Brighton, securing his services on a five-year contract running until 2031. The deal brings the 22-year-old centre-back back to the French capital after a successful loan spell with Paris FC last season, during which he established himself as a key player in the club's defence. Coppola previously started his professional career with Hellas Verona in Italy, where he made his name in Serie A before moving to Brighton.
Coppola's return to Paris FC is reported to have cost approximately €18 million ($20.6 million), according to Transfermarkt. The defender made his name in Serie A with Hellas Verona before moving to Brighton, where he spent time on loan at the French club. His performances during that loan spell convinced Paris FC to make the deal permanent, with the club stating that his return "aligns perfectly with Paris FC’s commitment to building a sustainable project by placing its trust in young players with high potential."
The Italian international has earned two caps for the Italy national team and is seen as one of the most promising young defenders in European football. Paris FC, who earned promotion to Ligue 1 and finished 11th in their first season back in the top flight, are clearly building for the future with this signing. The club also appointed English manager Liam Rosenior as head coach earlier this month, signaling an ambitious new direction under new leadership.
