Egil Selvik is heading to Stade Brestois. The Norwegian international goalkeeper is close to completing a move from English club Watford to the French Ligue 1 side.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano confirms the deal is nearing completion. The transfer fee has not been disclosed, but Brest are said to have moved ahead of several other interested clubs to secure Selvik's signature. The player is under contract with Watford until the summer of 2028.
Selvik made his only appearance at the 2026 World Cup when Norway faced France in the group stage on June 26. Norway lost the match 4-1, with Selvik conceding four goals from nine shots faced. Despite the disappointing result, Norway had already qualified for the round of 16 before kick-off. This was a significant experience for the goalkeeper on the biggest stage.
Norway manager Ståle Solbakken selected Selvik as his first choice for that match. This highlights the trust in the goalkeeper despite him typically being the backup to Ørjan Nyland. Selvik's role within the national team setup is clearly defined in our squad overview.
The move to Ligue 1 represents a step up for the 29-year-old goalkeeper. At Stade Brestois, he will initially serve as the backup to first-choice keeper Grégoire Coudert. The club has been seeking a strong number two since Marco Bizot's departure. Selvik played 41 games for Watford in the Championship during the 2025/26 season, 40 of which were league matches.
For the Norwegian national team, regular playing time at a higher level could be beneficial. Selvik will be competing with other Norwegian goalkeepers playing in top leagues. His statistics from the World Cup and club football can be compared with others on our stats page.
Stade Brestois has had a turbulent summer. The club's historic sporting director Grégory Lorenzi left after ten years to join Olympique Marseille. The most significant event, however, was the tragic death of head coach Eric Roy at the age of 58. This forced the club to promote assistant coach Julien Lachuer to the manager role.
In the transfer market, the club has been cautious. Their first signing was announced this week, with Belgian midfielder Joseph Nonge signing a three-year contract with an option for a further year. The club is also considering bringing Senegalese striker Moussa Koné back to Ligue 1. Brest's league position can be followed on our standings page.
Selvik's arrival will provide Brest with security in the goalkeeping position. With a long contract at Watford, the club has invested in a player with experience from both English football and a World Cup. His development in France will be closely monitored by the national team management.
