Josh Duffus was forced into changing his nationality to complete a move away from Brighton this week.
The England youth international signed for French side Saint-Etienne, but he had to make a major switch to join them.
20-year-old Duffus, who was born in Lambeth in London, has represented his country at U17 and U19 level.
His last cap came in March 2024 in a clash with the USA.
However, he appears to have now given up any potential future playing again for England after changing his nationality.
Saint-Etienne were originally unable to sign Duffus from Brighton due to Ligue 2’s limit on non-EU players.
Clubs are only allowed to register two players who are from countries not in the EU and they have already filled those slots.
English players are now counted as non-EU players due to Great Britain leaving the European Union.
It meant Duffus had to make drastic action to seal the move.
According to reports in France, he obtained a Jamaican passport through his mother and now has citizenship there.
It allowed Saint-Etienne to register him in their squad.
Duffus has signed a four-year contract with the Ligue 2 club.
‘I can’t wait’
Duffus clearly wanted the move from Brighton to Saint-Etienne and he is looking forward to getting started.
Speaking after his move was complete, he said: “I’m joining a huge club, one that is inevitably associated with an incredible stadium, where I can’t wait to make my debut.
“I want to help bring this club back to the top, where it belongs.
“To do that, I want to bring intensity to the team on the pitch and, above all, I hope to be decisive and score goals.”
New manager Eirik Horneland added: “We are delighted that Joshua joins us. He brings both presence and attacking power, while always working hard for the team.
“He complements our forwards with new skills. He is young, ambitious, and brings positive energy to our daily training sessions.”
Duffus also sent a heartfelt message to Brighton as he departed following an eight-year spell at the club.
The striker joined their youth team in 2017 and went on to play over 80 times for the U18s and U21s.
He also made one first-team appearance in the Europa League.
Writing on X, Duffus said: After 8 years at Brighton & Hove Albion, it’s time to say goodbye.
“I’d like to thank all the players, coaches, staff and the fans for all your support throughout my time at the club and I wish you all the best in the future.
“Thank you.”