Brighton have completed the signing of Jaouen Hadjam from Young Boys on a five-year deal, adding another defensive option to their squad. The 23-year-old arrives from the Swiss Super League champions after building experience in both domestic and European competition.
What Brighton are getting
Hadjam has already made 98 appearances in the Swiss League and the Europa League before moving to Brighton, giving him a solid base of senior experience despite his age. He also featured for Algeria during the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, adding international tournament experience to his profile.
Brighton sporting director Mike Cave said the club believe Hadjam will be a strong addition to the group and a player who fits their style of play. He described him as a modern left-back with pace, attacking output and technical ability, while also noting his versatility.
Cave added that Brighton see Hadjam as someone who can strengthen already strong defensive options. The move suggests the club value not only his main position on the left side, but also the flexibility he has shown in Switzerland.
Why the move matters
For Brighton, this is a straightforward recruitment of a young player with first-team experience at club and international level. Hadjam does not arrive as a raw prospect. He comes with minutes in competitive league and European matches, plus the type of attributes Brighton say suit the way they want to play.
Five-year deals also point to a longer-term plan, and that appears to be the case here. Brighton have added a 23-year-old defender who can develop within the squad while offering immediate competition and depth.
