Brighton captain Symonds signs new 'long-term' deal

Brighton captain Maisie Symonds has signed a new contract, described by the club as long-term.

The 23-year-old midfielder, who joined from Chelsea in 2021, is Albion's longest-serving player and has made 103 appearances in all competitions.

Head coach Dario Vidosic said: "Maisie is a massive influence both on and off the pitch and since becoming captain last season she has developed both as a player and as a person.

"We are thrilled that she is committing her long-term future and will be part of our vision to establish Brighton as one of the top four WSL clubs."

Brighton reached the Women's FA Cup final at Wembley for the first time in May, with Symonds skippering the side against Manchester City.

Symonds has represented England up to under-21 level and received her first senior call-up in March 2025.

On signing her new deal, she added: "I'm very happy. I feel so at home here. It's the only club I've ever played for professionally and I feel I've grown so much over the last six years along with the club and the women's team.

"It really felt like we are setting high standards for ourselves with what we've been building in the last two years.

"We are starting to reach our potential, and we only want to get better and better."

Earlier this year, Brighton announced plans to build Europe's first purpose-built women's football stadium, which will cost £75-80m.

-BBC