Nigerian youngster Odel Offiah extends Brighton contract before loan move to Hearts

Nigerian youngster Odel Offiah has signed extension to his Brighton & Hove contract before joining Scottish side Hearts on a season long loan.

This is according to announcement via the Brighton official website on Friday August 18.

Offiah a 20-year old Central defender is now contracted to the Seagulls until June 30, 2025 but will spend the year out on loan with Scottish Premiership side Heart of Midlothian.

Offiah first joined the Seagulls from Bromley in 2017, and has featured on the first team matchday roster in 23 games.

The Anglo-Nigerian defence ace has made five first team appearances for Brighton.

Offiah made his Premier League debutant against Nottingham Forest on April 26, 2023 at the City Ground, coming off the bench for the last few minutes of action.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Odeluga Offiah retains the confidence of the Brighton and Hove Albion board as reflected in their statement announcing his loan move to Hearts.

Technical director David Weir said, “Odel has been around the first team picture for a while now, but we want him to get regular minutes.

“It was great for us to have another academy graduate get their first taste of Premier League football last season, something Odel had earned and we’re looking forward to seeing how he adapts to this new challenge in Scotland. We wish him the best of luck for the season.”