Brighton sign Colombian teenager Matias Orozco on five-year contract

Brighton have signed promising Colombian midfielder Matias Orozco on a five-year contract, with the teenager expected to continue his development on loan at a European club during the 2026/27 season.

The Seagulls have moved to secure the long-term future of a player they regard as an important prospect, despite Orozco not being expected to remain with the club for the forthcoming campaign. The planned loan move will give him the opportunity to gain further experience while continuing his progression away from England.

Orozco made his senior debut for Cali at the age of 16 and has already become established at the highest level of Colombian football. He played 24 times in the country’s top division last season, a record that reflects the speed of his rise and the responsibility he has taken on at a young age.

Brighton sporting director Mike Cave said the club were delighted to have completed the signing after identifying Orozco as a player with significant potential.

“We have identified Matias as an exciting young talent who we’re really pleased to bring to the club.

“He has already got good experience in Colombia and we will now place him with a club on loan for the 2026/27 season so he can continue his development.

“We’re looking forward to working with him and to helping him reach his potential.”

The agreement means Orozco has committed his future to Brighton while preparing for a season designed to build on the senior football he has already played in Colombia. His 24 appearances in the country’s top division came after he had broken into Cali’s first-team set-up at only 16, giving him valuable experience before his move to England.

Brighton’s decision to sign him reflects the club’s view that he is a long-term asset rather than an immediate first-team addition. The club will now arrange a loan spell with a European side for the 2026/27 campaign, allowing Orozco to continue playing and developing before returning to Brighton.

The midfielder’s progress has already been rapid. From entering Cali’s senior structure as a 16-year-old to featuring regularly in Colombia’s top division, he has established a strong foundation for the next stage of his career.

Brighton believe the new arrival can fulfil his potential with the right support and further competitive experience. Cave said the club were looking forward to working with Orozco and helping him develop after securing the player on a five-year deal.

The signing adds another highly rated young player to Brighton’s long-term plans, although his immediate future will be spent away from the Seagulls as he gains experience on loan in Europe.