Ecuadorian defender Pervis Estupinan has completed a move to AC Milan from Brighton & Hove Albion in a transfer worth £17 million, including bonuses. The 27-year-old has signed a contract that will keep him at the San Siro until 2030.
Estupinan had been a regular figure at Brighton since arriving from Villarreal in 2022. During his time with the English club, he featured in 104 matches and scored five times.
Contribution to Brighton and European breakthrough
He was part of the team that made history by securing a place in European competition for the first time, with Brighton reaching the Europa League knockout stages before exiting at the hands of Roma in the round of 16.
In the 2023–24 season, Estupinan played 34 games in all competitions as Brighton ended the campaign in eighth position in the Premier League table.
Brighton’s head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, praised the player’s impact during his spell on the south coast, acknowledging his decision to pursue a new adventure. “I have enjoyed working with Pervis, and he has made a significant contribution to the club during his time here,” Hurzeler said. “He is at the stage of his career when he wants a fresh challenge and this opportunity to play in Serie A gives him that.”
Early career and European success
Estupinan’s journey in English football began in 2016 when he signed with Watford. However, he did not make a first-team appearance for the Hornets.
He later found success in Spain with Villarreal, where he was part of the squad that won the Europa League in 2021, defeating Manchester United in the final. That performance led to his transfer to Brighton the following year.
