Brighton’s €20m loss: Coppola signs for Paris FC in Ligue 1

Italian centre‑back Diego Coppola has completed a permanent transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion to Paris FC, ending his six‑month loan in the French capital. The deal totals €20 million – €18 million upfront plus €2 million in bonuses – and fills a defensive gap for Paris FC.

Paris FC announced that Coppola has signed a contract running to 2031. The agreement is reported to be worth around €1.5 million net per season. The long‑term deal secures the defender’s services for the next decade.

During his six‑month loan, Coppola featured in 14 matches for Paris FC. Those appearances came in Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. His performances convinced the French side to trigger the permanent move.

The Bussolengo‑born defender progressed through the Hellas Verona academy before establishing himself in Serie A over four seasons. He earned his first senior Italy call‑up in June 2025. His rise from Verona to Paris FC has been rapid.

Brighton had acquired Coppola from Hellas Verona for €12 million only a year earlier. The Seagulls therefore record a healthy profit on a player who featured sparingly in England. The financial gain underlines the club’s transfer strategy.

Paris FC sporting director Marco Neppe hailed the signing. “It’s a great source of pride, with this permanent transfer, to make Diego a true Paris FC player,” he said. “Rare are the players who combine all his qualities, as a footballer and as a man.”

The club’s official announcement was accompanied by a photo taken on August 16 in Brighton, England, showing Coppola in a pre‑match warm‑up. The image underscores the cross‑channel nature of the transfer.

Coppola now adds Italy international experience to a Paris FC side competing in Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France in France.