Brighton & Hove Albion announce new contracts for two first-team players

Brighton & Hove Albion have announced that James Milner and Danny Welbeck have both signed contract extensions with the club.

While Milner has committed his future to the Seagulls until the summer of 2025, Welbeck has put pen to paper on a two-year extension until June 2026.

Speaking to the club's official website, head coach Roberto De Zerbi said: "I am delighted for James and Danny, as they both deserve these extensions. Their qualities as footballers and also as individuals are very clear for everyone to see, so this is very good news for us.

"They have both been very important for the club on and off the pitch, and with Adam Lallana leaving us their contribution becomes even more crucial next season."

Technical director David Weir added: "Danny has been an integral part of the team since his arrival, both on and off the pitch. While he adds a huge amount to the dressing room with his knowledge and experience there are also very few forwards out there that have the in-game qualities Danny has.

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Milner "driven" and "excited" to continue at Brighton

"Similarly James brings that same level of experience and know-how to the dressing room, and he too has that genuine top-level quality on the pitch. We are absolutely delighted that both have signed these new contracts."

Milner joined Brighton on a free transfer last summer after eight successful years at Liverpool, and the versatile midfielder has since made 20 appearances for the Seagulls in all competitions.

The 38-year-old, who has also represented boyhood club Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Manchester City during his esteemed career, became the second-highest appearance maker in the Premier League in January and he has played a total of 634 games in the competition, contributing to 144 goals (55 goals, 89 assists).

"I am as driven as I've ever been and I'm excited for next season", said Milner. "I really enjoyed the first half of this season as the club played in Europe for the first time while the second half has personally been disappointing with a couple of injuries, but I will be ready for the start of next season."

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Welbeck eyeing more "special moments" at Brighton

Welbeck, meanwhile, joined Brighton in 2020 following his release from Watford and has since made 123 appearances for the club in all tournaments, scoring 25 goals and registering eight assists.

The 33-year-old has chipped in with six goals in 35 games so far this season, including Premier League goals away at former club Manchester United and Liverpool, as well as a Europa League last-16 strike versus Roma.

"I've had an amazing time. Each season has been special and we've progressed every year," said Welbeck. "This season has been very difficult with the Europa League commitments. The fixture list has been different, but it's been a great step.

"A couple more key acquisitions for the squad will help us push on next season and I am pretty sure we can achieve some more special moments."

The announcement of new contracts for both Milner and Welbeck comes just a day after it was confirmed that experienced playmaker Lallana, 36, will be leaving the club when his deal expires at the end of the season.