Brighton in talks over Diego Coppola exit as Paris FC push for deal

Brighton and Hove Albion are in talks with Paris FC over a permanent transfer for Diego Coppola, with the French club working to keep the defender after his loan spell last season.

The 22-year-old spent the second half of the 2025/26 campaign in Paris after struggling for regular minutes at Brighton. Journalist Gianluigi Longari has now confirmed that contact between the two clubs is continuing as they try to find an agreement.

Coppola only joined Brighton in July 2025 but found first-team opportunities limited during his opening months in England.

A January loan to Paris FC gave the Italian centre-back the chance to play more regularly, and the French club are now pushing to extend his stay on a permanent basis.

Longari previously reported that Paris FC were leading the race for Coppola despite interest from Lazio, who had also explored the possibility of bringing him back to Italy. The latest update confirms that talks with Brighton remain active.

The key issue is now the structure of any agreement.

Brighton have several options available as negotiations continue.

A permanent transfer would provide an immediate solution, but another loan could allow Coppola to increase his value after a difficult first season in English football. Brighton have reportedly considered a similar approach with other players who need regular minutes.

A loan containing either an option or obligation to buy could therefore offer a compromise. Paris FC would retain a player they already know, while Brighton could protect their position if they are not yet prepared to sanction a straightforward sale.

Much will depend on the valuation and payment structure discussed between the clubs.

For Coppola, continuity may be the biggest attraction.

The defender has already experienced life at Paris FC and would avoid another period of adaptation at a new club. Regular football could also be important at this stage of his career after his first months at Brighton failed to produce a consistent Premier League role.

A return to Italy remains another possible route, but Paris FC currently appear to be making the strongest move. However, negotiations are still ongoing and no final agreement has been reported.

Paris FC will continue working with Brighton to determine whether Coppola can return permanently or through another structured deal. The French club’s continued contact suggests there is serious interest, but Brighton must first decide which type of exit best protects the defender’s value.

With talks now confirmed, the next development is likely to centre on whether the two clubs can agree a transfer fee or turn to another loan arrangement.

Should Brighton sell Diego Coppola permanently or give him another season on loan?