Brighton sign Shane Duffy from Blackburn for £4m

The 24 year-old Republic of Ireland international completed his medical at Falmer Stadium on Friday before signing a four year contract.

The deal to bring Duffy to Brighton is a record breaking signing for the Seagulls.

Chris Hughton’s Brighton are being tipped by many to secure promotion to the English Premier League this season.

Duffy’s departure from Ewood Park does not bode well for manager Owen Coyle whose Blackburn team are rock bottom of the English Championship.

Duffy, who is from Fernabbey in Londonderry, started his youth career with local side Foyle Harps before joining Everton.

The towering centre back was at Goodison Park for six seasons before loan spells with Burnley, Scunthorpe and Yeovil Town.

Duffy joined Blackburn Rovers in 2014 where he made 64 appearances and scored five goals along the way.

Duffy also represented Northern Ireland from U16 to U21 level before deciding to play for the Republic of Ireland.