West Bromwich Albion have completed the signing of defender Brayann Pereira on a four-year contract. The 23-year-old right-back arrives from Dutch side NEC Nijmegen, as confirmed by the club's official website on transfer deadline day.
Pereira joins a West Brom side sitting sixth in the Championship with six points from three games. Their recent form reads LWW, having scored six goals and conceded five so far this season. The Baggies are three points behind league leaders Charlton ahead of their next match at home to Watford on September 5th.
What experience does Pereira bring?
Brayann Pereira brings a varied European background to The Hawthorns. He helped NEC Nijmegen achieve a third-place finish in the Eredivisie last season and gained experience in Champions League qualifiers. Prior to his time in the Netherlands, the defender played in France for Lens and Auxerre. He describes the Dutch top flight as a very technical and demanding league, which he believes has improved him both technically and tactically.
Pereira is confident his style will suit English football. "I’m really happy to be here," he said in his first Albion interview. "I think the English competition will be really good for me because it will match with my playing style." He noted he has watched Championship matches involving sides like Stoke City, Newcastle, and Middlesbrough, and values intensity, running, and going into duels.
Where will he fit in the squad?
The new signing is primarily a right-back but has shown positional flexibility. He stated he is willing to adapt to any defensive role required by the coach, having previously played as a right-sided centre-back in a back three system. Pereira highlighted his strong mentality and work ethic as key attributes, saying he never gives up.
He has already spoken with the manager, a former player at the club, about his qualities and the team's ambitions. Pereira believes West Brom has a good project and wants to help the team play good, possession-based football. He aims to give everything to help the squad have a great season and make the fans happy.
How will he settle in England?
Adapting to a new country and league can be challenging, but Pereira will have immediate support. He is optimistic about settling in quickly with the help of French-speaking teammates Ousmane Diakité, Nolan Galves, and Rabby Nzingoula. He spoke with his new colleagues at lunchtime following his move, and they spoke highly of the club's staff, fans, and facilities.
"This is a really big and historic club," Pereira said. "I can’t wait to get started. It’s really exciting to be here." He is eager to learn more about the club and the local area, with the immediate focus on preparing for the upcoming Championship fixtures. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming games on the club's fixtures and standings pages.
Pereira's arrival bolsters defensive options for a team looking to maintain its positive early-season momentum. His four-year deal signals a long-term commitment as West Bromwich Albion aim to build on their sixth-place standing. The next test is a home match against ninth-placed Watford this Saturday.
