Brighton & Hove Albion have made a bold statement in the transfer market, agreeing to a record-breaking £29.78 million (€35 million) deal with Olympiakos for 18-year-old forward Charalampos Kostoulas. The deal, which includes an additional £1.7 million in potential add-ons, could become the most expensive transfer ever involving a Greek player.
This move not only shatters the previous Greek club record—set when Wolves signed Daniel Podence from Olympiakos for £16.6 million in 2020—but also signals Brighton’s growing ambition in both domestic and European football.
Who Is Charalampos Kostoulas?
Nicknamed “Babistuta” by fans—an ode to Argentine legend Gabriel Batistuta—Kostoulas has quickly become one of Europe’s most talked-about teenage talents. The forward rose to prominence during Olympiakos’ historic 2024/25 campaign, helping the Greek giants secure a domestic double and UEFA Youth League glory.
With dazzling footwork, an eye for goal, and maturity beyond his years, Kostoulas is considered one of the brightest attacking prospects in European football. His breakout season featured a string of record-breaking performances, including becoming the youngest Greek player to score in European competition.
Why Brighton?
Despite interest from European heavyweights including Arsenal, Manchester United, and RB Leipzig, Brighton have pulled off a major coup by securing Kostoulas’ signature. Known for their sharp recruitment and player development under technical director David Weir, Brighton have earned a reputation as one of the best-run clubs in England.
For Kostoulas, the Premier League offers a perfect platform to take the next step in his career. Brighton’s style of play and track record with young players—such as Alexis Mac Allister, Moisés Caicedo, and Evan Ferguson—likely influenced the teenager’s decision.
What This Means for Greek Football
The £29.78 million transfer is a watershed moment for Greek football. Not only is it the largest fee ever received by a Greek club, but if the full add-ons are triggered, Kostoulas will also become the most expensive Greek footballer in history—surpassing Kostas Manolas’ £30.63 million move from Roma to Napoli in 2019.
It marks a significant shift in the perception of Greek talent on the international stage, and could open the floodgates for other top Greek prospects to move abroad at a younger age.
What’s Next?
Kostoulas is set to officially join Brighton on July 1 after completing his medical. He will sign a five-year contract, with the option to extend. While he may initially need time to adapt to the physical demands of English football, his arrival is a thrilling development for Seagulls fans.
With pre-season looming, the South Coast club could be about to unleash one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards on the Premier League.
