Femi Azeez joins Brighton: 3 reasons why Brighton signed Nigeria star

Super Eagles forward Femi Azeez has completed a move to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion ahead of the 2026-27 season, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 25-year-old had been heavily linked with an exit throughout the summer before Brighton stepped up their interest late in the transfer window. The Seagulls initially had offers rejected before finally reaching an agreement with Millwall for the Nigerian forward.

The deal is worth just over £15 million in total, with £12.5 million guaranteed and the rest made up of add-ons and Azeez has signed a four-year contract, which also includes the option of an additional year.

The Nigerian forward has also made an impressive start to his international career with the Super Eagles. He scored two goals on his debut in Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup semi-final before providing an assist in the final victory over Jamaica.

In a post on their official website, Brighton announced the arrival of the exciting Nigerian talent and revealed how they scrambled to complete the deal before the transfer deadline.

“We are pleased to confirm the signing of Nigerian international winger Femi Azeez from Millwall on a four-year contract, for undisclosed terms.

“The two clubs submitted a deal sheet ahead of the 11pm deadline last night, to extend the deadline until 1am this morning, and concluded the deal ahead of the extended deadline.”

Why Brighton signed Femi Azeez

Aston Villa and Hull City were among the clubs heavily linked with Femi Azeez during the summer before Brighton entered the race for his signature. Ipswich Town also had an offer rejected by Millwall earlier in the transfer window, but Brighton eventually won the race to sign the Nigerian star.

There are three main reasons why the Seagulls decided to bring Azeez to the Premier League, with sporting director Mike Cave highlighting some of the qualities that made him an attractive signing.

His impressive displays for Millwall in the Championship

Femi Azeez joined Millwall in 2024 from Reading, but it was during the 2025-26 season that he truly rose to prominence with his superb performances.

The Nigerian star scored 11 goals and provided seven assists across all competitions. He also impressed in several other attacking areas and played an influential role in Millwall’s push for promotion.

Millwall eventually finished third and qualified for the playoffs, although their promotion hopes were ended by Hull City, who progressed and eventually secured promotion.

Azeez’s performances also earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Season, as voted for by his fellow players, highlighting the impact he made during the campaign.

Brighton sporting director Mike Cave was particularly impressed by Azeez’s contribution to Millwall’s successful season.

“He arrives off the back of an excellent season with Millwall, having played a key role for them as they finished in the playoffs.”

His exciting attacking talent

Another major reason Brighton moved for Azeez was his attacking ability and versatility.

The Nigerian forward is capable of playing in multiple positions across the attack, giving Brighton several options in how they can use him. He can operate in different attacking roles while also linking up well with his teammates.

Azeez also possesses the pace and trickery needed to take on defenders and create opportunities in the final third. His ability to beat opponents makes him a dangerous option in one-on-one situations.

Brighton clearly believe they have signed one of the most exciting attacking players outside the Premier League.

“He was one of the most exciting attacking talents in the Championship, and we’re delighted to have finally agreed his transfer, and we’re now looking forward to working with him.”

Potential to improve Brighton’s attack

Azeez’s qualities could also make him a valuable addition to Brighton’s attacking options.

The Seagulls already have several attacking players in their squad, but the Nigerian star brings a different profile with his pace and ability to take on defenders.

He showed at Millwall last season that he has the quality to perform consistently and influence games, and Brighton will hope he can take another step forward.

His arrival gives Brighton an additional attacking threat and could provide more competition and depth in the squad as they prepare for the rest of the season.

The Super Eagles star could now be in line to make his debut for Brighton this weekend when they face Leeds United at the American Express Stadium.