Brighton explain why they signed ‘exciting talent’ Femi Azeez
Brighton & Hove Albion have explained why they pushed to sign Nigerian winger Femi Azeez from Millwall on a four-year contract.
The Premier League club completed the late deadline-day move after submitting a deal sheet before Tuesday’s 11pm deadline. That allowed negotiations to continue until 1am on Wednesday, when the transfer was finally completed.
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Although the fee was not disclosed, Brighton were convinced they were signing a player ready to make the step up after an impressive campaign in the Championship.
Brighton impressed by Azeez’s Championship form
Brighton sporting director Mike Cave highlighted Azeez’s performances for Millwall during the 2025-26 season as a major reason behind the club’s decision.
“We are delighted to add Femi to the squad. He arrives off the back of an excellent season with Millwall, having played a key role for them as they finished in the playoffs,” Cave said.
“He was one of the most exciting attacking talents in the Championship, and we’re delighted to have finally agreed his transfer, and we now looking forward to working with him.”
Azeez’s record offered plenty of evidence to support Brighton’s assessment. The 25-year-old made 77 appearances for Millwall, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists.
His 28 goal contributions demonstrated his ability to influence games in the final third, while his performances helped Millwall secure a place in the Championship playoffs.
Azeez was also recognised individually, earning places in both the PFA Championship Team of the Season and the EFL Championship Team of the Season.
From non-league football to the Premier League
The move represents another significant step in Azeez’s unusual rise through the English game.
The winger came through Watford’s academy before dropping into non-league football with Northwood. He subsequently played for Wealdstone and Hanwell Town before earning a move to Reading in 2019.
He joined Millwall in 2024 and established himself as one of the Championship’s more dangerous attacking players over the following two seasons.
His performances also attracted wider recognition. In March, Azeez was nominated for the EFL Championship Player of the Month award after contributing to five Millwall goals during February.
He produced memorable moments too, including a curling long-range finish against West Bromwich Albion in Millwall’s 3-0 victory at The Den in October 2025.
His international breakthrough further strengthened his credentials.
Azeez made his Nigeria debut against Zimbabwe in June 2026 and scored both goals in a 2-0 victory. Four days later, he provided an assist in the Super Eagles’ 3-0 win over Jamaica.