GAETAN BONG has ended Albion's long search for a permanent left-back after rejecting more lucrative offers from at home and abroad.

The former Wigan and Cameroon World Cup defender has joined the Seagulls on a free transfer, signing a two-year deal.

The capture of Bong, revealed on The Argus website last night, follows three seasons in which Albion have depended on loan signings in the position in the shape of Wayne Bridge, Stephen Ward and, most recently, Joe Bennett from Aston Villa.

A Championship rival with Premier League pedigree wanted Bong. The 27-year-old also rejected two offers from abroad, including France where he spent the early part of his career, to continue playing in England after finishing last season at relegated Wigan on a short-term contract.

Bong told The Argus: "I had other options where I could earn more money. I chose Brighton because I saw something in them.

"I spoke with the people at the club and everyone thinks the same. Everyone wants to go in the same direction. I like this and I think I can help."

Bong played for FC Metz and Valenciennes FC in France. He spent 18 months with Greek giants Olympiakos before joining Wigan in February and impressing against Albion at the DW Stadium in April.

He represented Cameroon at the 2010 World Cup Finals in South Africa, having previously played for France at under-21 level.

Albion manager Chris Hughton said: "Gaetan is a player that we were aware of at Olympiakos. When he joined Wigan it provided us with a really good opportunity to watch him at close hand in the Championship, and we saw him a lot during that time and he was one of the outstanding players for them.

"Gaetan has played top-flight football in France and Greece, and has experience at international level - which has been key for us this summer. He is very athletic, he is a natural left-sided player, and it is important to have that balance in the squad."

Further signings are on the horizon for Albion after landing Bong, versatile ex-Hull right-back Liam Rosenior on a free transfer and Israel target man Tomer Hemed from Almeria for a seven figure fee.

They are still in the market for a goalkeeper, centre-half, winger and striker depending on the futures of Adrian Colunga and Chris O'Grady. Finland international Nikki Mäenpää remains among the goalkeeping candidates.