Brighton have secured the signature of Austria international Michael Svoboda, bringing the centre-back from Serie B champions Venezia on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 27-year-old is currently representing Austria at the World Cup and will link up with Fabian Hurzeler's squad later in the summer once his international duties are complete.
Svoboda captained Venezia to the Serie B title last season, earning widespread admiration for his leadership and composure at the back. Head coach Hurzeler was effusive in his praise for the incoming defender.
