Bruno has issued a statement of intent for next season – by agreeing a new deal in double-quick time.

The right-back wasted no time in agreeing a one-year contract after an outstanding 2015-16 season.

He would now appear to be a strong contender for club captaincy as Gordon Greer leaves the Amex.

Chris Hughton made Bruno his skipper in Greer’s absence during the second half of the season as Albion chased promotion.

He can head off for a summer break with off-field business tied up – and a fifth season at the Amex to look forward to.

Bruno said: “I’m so happy for a lot of reasons because we are like family here and I always wanted to stay.

“It means a lot that the club has offered me a new deal and to have that support from the club. I can see that they value my contribution and I’m so pleased to be here because it always was my first option.

“There are always options, but Brighton wanted me to stay here and I wanted to stay as well - that’s the most important thing. For me, it was an easy decision. Now it’s time to get even stronger and achieve what we deserve.”

Bruno polled an impressive 36% of votes in Albion’s player of the season poll but was pipped by Beram Kayal with 41%.

He added: “Personally it was my best season. Full-backs always perform well in the best teams. You can see that from the way that Barcelona, Real Madrid and all the big teams play.

The Argus:

“They always have the best performing full-backs and that’s because the team is very strong. My best performances have come this season, but that’s because all of my team-mates were superb as well. For me, it’s easier to play in a strong team.”

“When you’ve had a season like the one just gone, there are plenty of things to think about and the gaffer was one of them.

“I wanted to continue working under his guidance and for me it was one of the really important factors. I am really looking forward to working under him against next season.”

Meanwhile former Albion head coach Oscar Garcia could be on his way back to the Championship.

Nottingham Forest have sounded out Oscar’s agent but he would need convincing that all was well behind the scenes at the City Ground before agreeing to move from Austrian double-winners Red Bull Salzburg.