Albion sign Costinha to add energy and European experience

Brighton & Hove Albion have secured the signing of Costinha, a 26‑year‑old defender, to strengthen the right‑back position, with the club hoping his energy and European experience will bolster their squad ahead of the first upcoming full 2024‑25 campaign.

"Costinha brings energy down that right-hand side and he's experienced in Europe as well," Warren Aspinall said on the Albion Unlimited podcast. "I think he's made 65 appearances since his signing in 2024 for Olympiacos and he's 26‑years‑old."

Mats Wieffer, described as a versatile defender, could see his role shift. Aspinall added that the signing creates a situation where the club could move Wieffer into midfield.

Johnny Cantor expressed his eagerness, saying, "I'm desperate to see what Wieffer could achieve. It may be difficult for him to flip‑flop, but if Costinha can play regularly at right‑back, there's absolutely no reason why Wieffer doesn't become another option in midfield."

Cantor also highlighted Costinha's European pedigree, noting his Champions League experience and Albion's upcoming second season in the Conference League after playing in the Europa League in 2023‑24.

He remarked, "We don't know about any player coming into the Premier League because it's so different and if you can deal with it, but I would say that experience is something they've gone for."

The discussion took place on the Albion Unlimited podcast and was broadcast on BBC Sounds, with Johnny Cantor representing BBC Radio Sussex.