ALBION have launched a revamp of their centre-half options by landing Nigerian international Leon Balogun on a free transfer from Mainz.

The German-born 29-year-old completed the formalities of a two-year deal at the Lancing training complex yesterday afternoon before linking up with the Nigeria squad last night for their World Cup preparations, which include a friendly against England at Wembley on June 2.

The Seagulls sealed the deal on only the sixth day of the summer transfer window following Uwe Huenemeier’s return to Germany with Paderborn.

Balogun may not be the only central defender they sign before their second season in the Premier League. Connor Goldson, already a target for Glasgow Rangers, has become increasingly frustrated by a lack of opportunities, with Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy dominating the centre-back spots.

Right-footed Balogun, used as an emergency right-back by two of his former clubs, Hannover and Werder Bremen, regards himself primarily as a centre-half.

He told The Argus: “I am quite physical, aggressive, but not in a stupid way. I try to have good timing, be smart in my tackles, but also hurt the opposition, not by being unfair but trying to give them a hard time.

“What amazed me with Brighton was even though they were new to the league they tried to play football. Usually most of the teams focus on defending. They defend very well but they also know how to play football.”

Balogun, who also had spells in Germany with Fortuna Dusseldorf and SV Darmstad, is looking forward to playing under Chris Hughton.

He said: “I think if you talk to him you get a sense of what he is looking for. He is very clear, he knows what he wants. I’m excited to work for him as well as with the team.”

Hughton said: “He is in the peak years of his career and I am sure he will integrate well into the squad. He also has valuable experience, having played in the Bundesliga, the Europa League (Mainz) and at international level.”