Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed the signing of defender Joel Veltman, with the Dutchman signing a three-year deal.
Joel Veltman Joins Brighton & Hove Albion
A Coup for Brighton
The 28-year-old may prove to be an excellent signing for the Seagulls. He has joined for a fee in the region of £900,000, according to Andy Naylor of The Athletic.
Veltman, who has spent his entire career with Dutch club Ajax, can operate at both centre-back and at right-back.
It may be at right-back where he gets his opportunity, following the departure of Ezequiel Schelotto. Brighton are well-stocked at the heart of defence, while Martin Montoya is the only senior right-back.
Having spent his entire career with Ajax, Veltman will bring a wealth of European experience to the club. He made 24 appearances last season, as Ajax won yet another league title.
What Was Said?
Speaking to the official Brighton website, manager Graham Potter said: “We’re delighted to welcome Joel to the club. He has terrific experience from his time with Ajax including the Champions League and, of course, with the Dutch national team.
“He’s an excellent defender who can play at right-back and at centre half, but he’s also comfortable in possession.
“He is really looking forward to the challenge of playing in the Premier League and we’re delighted he is now a Brighton player and we’re looking forward to working with him.”
Veltman added: “I spoke with [Ajax chief executive and former Manchester United and Fulham goalkeeper] Edwin van der Sar about the Premier League and the tempo in all of the matches, it is similar to the Champions League. But that was four game in one season whereas the Premier League is all day every day. It will be different but I’m looking forward to it.”
“I can’t wait to get started. I have seen a lot of Brighton games on TV and the Amex stadium looked amazing, but it is not until you see it yourself that you realise how good it is.
“The training facilities are fantastic too. The Dutch League finished in April, so it’s been quite frustrating in the last few weeks not being able to train, but I’m delighted to be a Seagulls player and looking forward to the challenge of my new challenge and the Premier League.”
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