Brighton and Hove Albion sign Japan International Kiko Seike

Brighton and Hove Albion have confirmed the signing of Japan international Kiko Seike from WE League side Urawa Reds.

Seike, a prolific striker, will join Albion after the Paris Olympics, in time for the new Barclays Women’s Super League season.

Zoe Johnson, managing director of women’s and girls’ football at Albion, expressed her excitement about the signing.

“We’re delighted to welcome Kiko to the club. She comes to us with a lot of experience at the highest level in Japan, which has earned her a well-deserved place in Japan's Olympic Games squad,” Johnson said.

“We look forward to working with Kiko and seeing her career develop in the WSL.”

Seike was the top goal scorer in the WE League last season with Urawa Reds, where she netted 20 goals.

The 27-year-old striker spent 15 years with Urawa Reds, making over 150 appearances and scoring 40 goals.

Her performance last season earned her the league’s top scorer and Most Valuable Player awards as Urawa retained their league title.

Since her debut in 2019, Seike has made 21 appearances for Japan, including three last season.