Transfer Market Official: Another Portuguese Heads to the Premier League, Rio Ave Set to Cash In

Brighton officially announced the signing of Costinha from Olympiakos on Monday. The 26-year-old right-back has penned a five-year contract. The completion of the deal, however, remains contingent on the issuance of his international transfer certificate and standard regulatory approvals.

While the transfer fee was not disclosed, the deal is reportedly worth around 13 million euros. Two years ago, Costinha generated 2.5 million euros for Rio Ave, and the Vila do Conde club is now set to benefit significantly from this transfer. They retained a 30% sell-on clause from a future transfer, which will net them a substantial sum of nearly four million euros.

Costinha heads to the Premier League after establishing himself as a pivotal player for Olympiakos. "His defensive reliability, energy on the right flank, and growing influence with the ball made him a standout figure for Olympiakos, both domestically and in European competitions," Brighton highlighted.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler praised the new recruit, stating that the player had been monitored for some time.

"Costinha is a player we've been tracking closely for a while. He possesses the defensive capabilities, intensity, and understanding of what we value, and we feel he will be an excellent addition to the squad," the coach declared.

Hurzeler further added that the Portuguese full-back "is comfortable both with and without possession and will add competitiveness" to the right-back position: "I'm very pleased he chose to continue his development with us in the Premier League."