Diego Coppola has completed a permanent switch to Paris FC, ending a brief stint in the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion. The deal is worth €18 million plus €2 million in bonuses, with the Italy defender signing a contract until 2031.
The move comes after a successful six-month loan spell in the French capital during the second half of the 2025-26 campaign, where Coppola made 14 appearances across Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. Paris FC sporting director Marco Neppe hailed the permanent capture of a player who had quickly impressed both on and off the pitch.
"It's a great source of pride, with this permanent transfer, to make Diego a true Paris FC player. Rare are the players who combine all his qualities, as a footballer and as a man. Diego's return to Paris FC is excellent news for us."
The 23-year-old centre-back joined Brighton from Hellas Verona for €12 million in the summer of 2025, but he found playing time limited in the Premier League. Brighton will bank a healthy profit on a player who departs the Amex Stadium having featured only sparingly in England.
Coppola's rapid rise
It caps a whirlwind two years for the Bussolengo-born defender, who came through Verona's academy and established himself over four Serie A seasons. His form earned a first senior Italy call-up in June 2025, and he now looks set to become a key figure in the Paris FC backline for years to come.
Reports indicate Coppola will earn around €1.5 million net per season in the French capital, where he will be expected to help the club challenge for European qualification. The move represents a significant statement of intent from Paris FC, who are building a squad capable of competing with the Ligue 1 elite.
