Paris FC have secured the permanent signing of Italy defender Diego Coppola from Brighton and Hove Albion, with the 22-year-old committing to the Ligue 1 club until 2031. The centre-back returns to the French capital following a productive loan stint in the second half of last season.
The transfer fee has been reported differently by separate sources. French publication L’Équipe indicates Brighton will receive €20 million for the former Hellas Verona player, while Italian outlets suggest the deal is structured as €18 million plus an additional €2 million in bonuses. Paris FC officially announced the move for an undisclosed fee.
Coppola initially joined the club on loan in January after struggling to secure regular first-team football at Brighton. During his temporary spell, he made 14 appearances across all competitions, working under both Stéphane Gilli and subsequent manager Antoine Kombouaré. His displays during this period persuaded the club to pursue a full-time arrangement.
The permanent transfer represents a swift turnaround for the Bussolengo-born defender, who only moved to Brighton from Hellas Verona a year ago for a fee of €12 million. The Seagulls now stand to make a substantial profit on a player who featured sparingly in English football.
Paris FC sporting director Marco Neppe welcomed the acquisition. “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. Diego’s return to Paris FC is excellent news for us.”
New Management Era
Coppola will work under a third different manager during his time at the Stade Jean Bouin next season. Liam Rosenior has taken charge of the club, replacing Kombouaré in the dugout. Rosenior carries historic links to Coppola’s former employers through his previous spells at Brighton as both a player and coach.
The defender came through Hellas Verona’s academy and established himself over four Serie A campaigns before his switch to England. He earned his first senior Italy call-up in June 2025, highlighting his growing reputation at international level.
With his permanent arrival confirmed, Coppola provides a boost to Rosenior’s defensive resources as the new manager looks to implement his philosophy ahead of the upcoming campaign. Having already adapted to the demands of French football during his six-month loan, the centre-back is expected to play a significant role as the club seeks to establish itself in the top flight.