French forward Georginio Rutter has officially joined Brighton for a club-record fee of £40m from Leeds. The Seagulls have signed the 22-year-old on a five-year deal.

Following his move from Hoffenheim in January 2023, Rutter scored eight goals in 66 matches for Leeds, who broke their transfer record by paying him up to £36m.

Brighton’s technical director, David Weir, stated that the Frenchman is a player they have been monitoring.

“He’s a strong technical player and one we are excited to bring to the club. We look forward to seeing him continue to develop with us,” said Weir.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler added: “Georginio is a player who has the capabilities to get fans off their seats and really showed what he can do in English football with Leeds last season – but I have known about him since he played in Germany for Hoffenheim.”

Hurzeler, the Premier League’s youngest boss at 31, added, “Now we have to integrate him into the team. We’re looking forward to working with him.”

Despite Rutter’s release clause being activated, Leeds made a strong effort to keep him.

Rutter was part of Leeds’ team in their first Championship game against Portsmouth and made his last appearance in the League Cup match against Middlesbrough.

Brighton will host Manchester United in their next Premier League match after defeating Everton 3-0 at Goodison Park in their season opener.