Brighton & Hove Albion have made a bold move in the transfer market tabling a €40million (£34m; $45.6m) bid for Olympiacos’ 18-year-old striker Charalampos Kostoulas a player widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young talents. The Seagulls are in ongoing negotiations with the Greek Super League champions, following an earlier rejected offer of £30m plus winger Abdallah Sima. Olympiacos, keen to retain their star, are holding firm, demanding a sell-on clause and potentially a higher fee, with estimates suggesting a price tag of €50-55m to secure the deal.
Kostoulas has enjoyed a breakout season, contributing seven goals and two assists in 30 appearances across the Greek Super League and Europa League. His pivotal role in Olympiacos’ 2023-24 UEFA Youth League triumph, scoring five goals in eight games, showcased his clinical finishing and versatility, as he can play as a striker, attacking midfielder, or winger. The Greece U21 international’s pace, strength, and football intelligence have attracted interest from top clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Aston Villa, but Brighton appear to be leading the race.
Brighton’s pursuit aligns with their strategy of investing in young talent, as seen with their recent €26m signing of Greek striker Stefanos Tzimas. However, Olympiacos’ reluctance to sell, bolstered by Kostoulas’ contract until 2030, suggests negotiations could be complex. The potential transfer fee could surpass Brighton’s record €47m spent on Georginio Rutter, potentially making Kostoulas the most expensive Greek footballer ever.
With Brighton’s head coach Fabian Hurzeler eyeing a dynamic attacking duo, possibly alongside Tzimas, the Seagulls’ ambition is clear. Yet, with competition from elite clubs and Olympiacos’ high valuation, the deal’s outcome remains uncertain, with talks expected to intensify in the coming days.
