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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Ian Doyle

James Milner set for Liverpool reunion as free transfer confirmed

Liverpool could be set for a swift reunion with James Milner after Brighton snapped up the midfielder on a free transfer.

Milner has agreed a move to the South Coast after his contract at Anfield officially concludes at the end of the month, signing a one-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.

The 37-year-old spent eight years at Liverpool where he was vice-captain and made 332 appearances and scored 26 goals while contributing 45 assists.

The former England international swept the board of honours, claiming winners' medals in the Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup, FA Cup and League Cup, and skippered the side in the Europa League final defeat to Sevilla in 2016.

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Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi said: “I’m very glad to welcome James to Brighton. He’s an excellent addition for us and I’m sure he will help to bring us to an even higher level.”

Milner will link up with ex-Liverpool team-mate Adam Lallana, who made a similar switch to the Seagulls three years ago.

And by staying in the Premier League, Milner will now have the chance to close in on the appearance record currently held by Gareth Barry. Milner is on 619, with Ryan Giggs second in the all-time list with 632 and Barry leading the way on 653.

It also means he is poised for a return to Anfield in the coming season, as he had hinted when talking ahead of his final Liverpool appearance at Southampton last month. "I could be back in front of the Kop potentially (with another Premier League team) - yes, that's an option," said Milner.

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