Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of Bernardo Fernandes da Silva Junior from RB Leipzig this summer. The Seagulls have confirmed on their official website that they have signed the Brazilian defender for an undisclosed fee on a four-year deal. The 23-year-old has become the club’s fourth signing of the summer.
Some sources have recently claimed that the talented left-back has joined from Leipzig for a reported fee of £9m. Bernardo had featured in 49 matches for the Bundesliga club since his move from Red Bull Salzburg in the summer of 2016. He has represented the German outfit in both the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League last season and has joined the Seagulls after gaining a lot of experience at the top level.
Following his arrival, Brighton boss Chris Hughton expressed his delight and was quoted to have said,
“We’re delighted to welcome Bernardo to the club. He is a strong, committed defender who can play on the left or right, and so his versatility gives us good options at the back.
“For a young player he already has good experience, having played in the Bundesliga, the Champions League and the Europa League.
“He is a good character and speaks numerous languages, and I’m sure he will fit in well with the rest of the squad.”
The Seagulls managed to achieve a safe 15th place finish in the English top-flight last season. However, Hughton will be aware that he needs to bring in some quality during this summer transfer period if his team are to avoid the dreaded drop next season.
The addition of Bernardo will definitely bolster their defensive options ahead of the new season. Brighton have the likes of Lewis Dunk, Shane Duffy, Markus Suttner, Ezequiel Schelotto and Gaëtan Bong vying for a place in Hughton’s backline. The recent acquisition of Bernardo will undoubtedly add more competition for places within Hughton’s squad and improve their team significantly in the upcoming campaign.
The Brazilian had made 27 appearances for Leipzig last season and has one goal and one assist to his name in all competitions. At 23, Bernardo still has his prime years ahead of him which Hughton’s side could look to benefit from, in the coming years. It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of Bernardo and whether his time at the Amex Stadium turns out to be a success.
