Albion seal deal for Czech international

The versatile forward has joined from the Czech top-flight side on a deal until June 2019, and is Albion’s sixth acquisition of the January window.

He passed a medical at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre today and will be in contention for his Albion debut this Friday evening against Brentford at the Amex, subject to international clearance.

Brighton boss Chris Hughton said: “Jiri is a versatile forward, who is capable of scoring goals. He is a player who is able to play in any of the forward positions, and increases our attacking options for the second half of the season.

“He’s a skillful and technical player, a full international, and has represented his country at every level. He has played in the top division in the Czech Republic and the Europa League.”

“He is also someone we have been monitoring for some time, so we are delighted to have completed the transfer and to welcome Jiri to the club.”

Born in Pardubice, Skalak began his career with Sparta Prague, and he signed his first professional contract with the club in 2010.

As a young pro he had a number of loan moves, including season-long spells with FC Zbrojovka Brno and Boleslav, before making the permanent switch to Boleslav last summer.

He has scored six goals in 16 games so far this season; overall he has scored 23 goals and made nine assists in 153 appearances.

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