The transfer of Brajan Gruda from Bundesliga football club FSV Mainz 05 to English club Brighton & Hove Albion has been completed. The 20-year-old has signed a long-term contract, the club announced, according to Report, which cites Sky News.
"Brajan approached us with the desire to join Brighton. After careful consideration and with a heavy heart, we agreed to this transfer," said sporting director Christian Heidel.
Given the circumstances, the club could not afford to turn down this offer, Heidel said. Mainz did not disclose the transfer fee. Sky had previously reported that the club would receive €30 million in compensation.
Gruda had made a name for himself with strong performances at Mainz last season and had joined the training group of the German national team ahead of the European Football Championship.
Despite facing financial constraints, the club couldn't ignore the opportunity presented by other potential benefits from Brajan Gruda's transfer. His impressive performances and national team potential made him an asset worth pursuing beyond just the transfer fee.