Kurt Zouma Officially Receives Jersey Number 15 After Signing for Brighton & Hove Albion
In a move that has sent shockwaves across the Premier League, French international defender Kurt Zouma has officially signed for Brighton & Hove Albion. The experienced centre-back arrives from West Ham United in a deal that signals Brighton’s growing ambition as they continue their rise in English football. As part of his unveiling, Zouma was presented with the number 15 shirt — a number symbolic of a fresh chapter and a new challenge in his already impressive career.
A Surprise Signing with Huge Implications
While Brighton had been linked with several defenders during the transfer window, few anticipated that Kurt Zouma — a player with Champions League, Premier League, and Europa Conference League pedigree — would be heading to the south coast. The 29-year-old had been an integral part of West Ham’s defensive setup, helping them secure European football and lifting the Conference League trophy in 2023.
However, as Brighton prepares for another intense Premier League campaign, possibly coupled with European football depending on final standings and results elsewhere, the club moved swiftly to bolster their backline with experience, strength, and leadership.
The deal, believed to be worth around £12 million, was completed after successful medicals and personal terms were swiftly agreed. Zouma has signed a three-year contract, with an option for an additional year.
Receiving the Number 15 Shirt
Zouma’s presentation at the AMEX Stadium was marked with the reveal of his new jersey: number 15. The number holds personal significance for Zouma, who wore it earlier in his career and sees it as a symbol of stability and strength.
Speaking at his unveiling, the Frenchman said:
“Wearing the number 15 shirt for Brighton feels right. It’s a number I’ve worn before and had success with. I’m grateful for this opportunity, and I’m here to help the team compete, defend well, and reach new levels.”
The shirt reveal, which took place in front of a small group of fans and media, was met with enthusiastic applause. Many Brighton supporters praised the signing on social media, describing it as a “statement move” and a “masterstroke by the club.”
Experience Meets Brighton’s Footballing Philosophy
Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi welcomed Zouma with open arms, highlighting both the experience he brings and his compatibility with the club’s progressive playing style.
“Kurt is a leader. He brings calm, confidence, and a wealth of experience from playing at the highest level,” said De Zerbi. “He’s strong in the air, intelligent in his positioning, and comfortable on the ball. We believe he will fit in very well with how we play and how we build from the back.”
Zouma will likely be slotted into the heart of Brighton’s defence alongside Lewis Dunk or Jan Paul van Hecke, offering much-needed depth and rotation options in a season expected to be packed with fixtures.
A Career Built on Grit and Glory
Zouma’s journey to Brighton has been anything but ordinary. Rising through the ranks at Saint-Étienne in France, he was signed by Chelsea as a teenager and went on to win multiple trophies including two Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. Loan spells at Stoke City and Everton allowed him to develop further, before solidifying his reputation as a top-tier Premier League defender at West Ham.
In total, Zouma has made over 200 Premier League appearances and has been capped multiple times for the French national team. His arrival brings a wealth of top-level experience to a Brighton squad filled with youthful exuberance and tactical intelligence.
Brighton’s Growing Reputation
This move once again underlines Brighton’s reputation as a club on the rise — one that is no longer content to merely survive in the Premier League, but one intent on establishing itself among the top ten and beyond. The signings of seasoned professionals like Zouma show a balance of strategy: mixing youth development with experienced players who can guide the team through big matches and long campaigns.
Club CEO Paul Barber also expressed delight at the deal:
“Kurt’s signing shows our intent. We’re building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, and players of his calibre will help us get there.”
What Comes Next for Zouma and Brighton?
Kurt Zouma is expected to join up with the squad immediately for pre-season preparations. With the Premier League season just weeks away, De Zerbi will be keen to integrate the defender quickly into his tactical setup. The fans are hopeful that Zouma’s presence will help the club improve on last season’s defensive record and push for European qualification again.
For Zouma, this is a new chapter — one filled with opportunity, challenge, and promise. As he pulled on the blue and white stripes of Brighton for the first time, holding up the number 15 jersey, there was a sense of renewal and excitement. Not just for the player, but for the club as well.
Kurt Zouma is a Seagull now — and Brighton are flying higher than ever.
