Former Southampton defender Jason Dodd has signed a one-year deal with Brighton - in a deal brokered by ex-Saints manager Gordon Strachan.
Dodd, 34, had been linked with Plymouth where he had a successful loan spell.
But he told Southampton's website: "I rang Gordon and asked him about (Albion boss) Mark McGhee - they are good mates and he spoke very highly of him.
"Mark said he would love to have me there, and I spoke to their chairman - everything was agreed in half-an-hour."
Seagulls boss McGhee told his club's website he was thrilled Dodd opted to move to the Withdean Stadium.
"Jason is an excellent addition," McGhee affirmed.
"He has played over 400 games at the top level. He is in excellent condition and can play in a lot of positions."
Dodd played a total of 488 games during a 16-year career with the Saints, but was not offered a new deal this summer.
And Brighton chairman Dick Knight says Dodd's Premiership pedigree will be invaluable: "Not only are we bringing in a great player, but a player with lots of experience which will help our young players."
