Transfer news: Matthew Upson signs one-year deal to join Leicester and return to the Premier League after rejecting new contract at Brighton

Upson turned down the chance to stay with the Seagull in favour to join the newly-promoted Foxes

Matthew Upson (Getty Images)

Leicester have agreed a deal to sign experienced defender Matthew Upson.

Upson turned down the offer of a new contract at Brighton in favour of a return to Barclays Premier League football with the Foxes, who this season ended their decade-long absence from the top flight by winning the Sky Bet Championship title.

He will sign a one-year deal on July 1 after his current contract with the Seagulls expires.

The 35-year-old played 47 games this season for Brighton, winning the club's player of the year award and helping them reach the play-offs where they were beaten by Derby.

Upson started his career at Luton and also played for Arsenal, Birmingham, West Ham and Stoke, before joining Brighton last summer after an initial loan spell.

He won 22 international caps for England and played at the 2010 World Cup.

Upson is the second new signing to be announced by Leicester in the last 24 hours following the arrival of Charlton goalkeeper Ben Hamer, who has agreed a four-year deal with the club.

PA