Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of Algerian left-back Jaouen Hadjam. The club confirmed the transfer from Swiss champions Young Boys on Tuesday, with the 23-year-old signing a contract until 2031.
This move comes as Brighton sit top of the Premier League after one game, having kicked off their campaign with a 4-0 victory over Europa League holders Aston Villa. They have scored four goals without conceding, with J. Hinshelwood leading the scoring charts with two goals. Their next challenge is an away trip to face Chelsea, who are currently sixth, on 30 August.
Who is Jaouen Hadjam?
Jaouen Hadjam is a 23-year-old defender who joins Brighton after two seasons with Swiss side Young Boys. He made 98 appearances in all competitions for the Bern-based club after joining from French Ligue 1 side Nantes in 2024. Born in Paris, Hadjam developed in the prestigious youth academy of Paris Saint-Germain before beginning his professional career.
Internationally, Hadjam initially represented France at youth level before switching his allegiance to Algeria in 2023. He has since earned 21 caps for the Algerian national team and was part of their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At the tournament, he featured in three of Algeria's four matches, including their Group J encounter against Austria at Kansas City Stadium on 27 June.
What does this signing mean for Brighton?
The acquisition adds significant depth and international pedigree to Brighton's defensive options. Hadjam becomes the third Algerian player currently active in the Premier League, joining Rayan Ait-Nouri of Manchester City and Mohamed El Bachir Belloumi of Hull City. He follows in the footsteps of Riyad Mahrez, the former Leicester City and Manchester City winger widely regarded as the most successful Algerian to have played in England's top flight.
Brighton did not disclose the transfer fee for the player. The five-year contract secures Hadjam's services until the summer of 2031, indicating the club's long-term planning. This signing was first reported by Al Jazeera.
Where does he fit into the current squad?
Hadjam arrives to compete for the left-back position as Brighton build on their strong start to the 2026-27 season. The team's immediate form is excellent, with a perfect record from their opening match. Managerial plans for integrating the new signing will become clearer in the coming weeks, especially with a busy schedule ahead. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches, including the Chelsea fixture, on the club's fixtures page.
His experience at a high level, including Champions League football with Young Boys and World Cup participation with Algeria, suggests he is ready to contribute immediately. The club's current defensive solidity, with zero goals conceded, provides a strong foundation for any new addition.
What is next for Brighton?
Attention now turns to integrating Hadjam into the squad and maintaining their early momentum. The focus is squarely on the next Premier League assignment against Chelsea. A positive result there would reinforce their promising start. The full squad details, including the new signing, are available on the official squad page.
This transfer represents a strategic piece of business for a Brighton side aiming to consolidate their position at the top end of the table. With key players performing and new talent arriving, the club's prospects for the season look bright. Supporters can follow all the latest league positions and statistics on the standings page.
