Brighton player ‘on verge’ of leaving despite positive contract talks with Seagulls

Brighton & Hove Albion star Joël Veltman’s future has been a regular topic of discussion in the Netherlands.

The 34-year-old moved to The Amex in 2020, after spending close to two decades at Ajax.

There’s been regular claims of the Dutch club’s interest and the Brighton man has also left the door open for a return.

Last October, the defender said he’s open to returning to Ajax in the near future.

Later that month, he insisted on the need to make a decision while also hinting a renewal offer from Brighton.

Dutchman was happy at Brighton 

Fast forward to June and Voetbal International covers the latest on Joël Veltman’s future.

Fabian Hürzeler has mainly utilised him as a right-back and in other defensive positions on certain occasions. He played 1,360 minutes from 28 matches and had a part in helping Brighton & Hove Albion qualify for the UEFA Conference League.

The Seagulls are happy with his performances and have decided to reward him with a new contract. They have already proposed him a serious offer, without VI mentioning their details.

He feels valued and appreciated at the Premier League, and this would have helped the parties have positive talks for the renewal. However, the discussions in recent weeks have stalled.

Veltman, despite being happy at the club, is seeking a new challenge. VI states he is now ‘on the verge’ of leaving Hürzeler’s side as a free agent.

The Dutchman isn’t ruling out a return to the Netherlands while also remains open to a move to Spain or Germany. He has received approaches from a few unnamed clubs.

There are no details of the clubs from these countries looking at Brighton man or to have made contact. There’s also no indication of where he could move next.

Brighton need new right-back

Fabian Hürzeler has rotated between Joël Veltman and Mats Wieffer this season. With the Dutchman on the verge of leaving, the Seagulls have to bring in his replacement this summer.

The new right-back has to compete and challenge Wieffer for place in the starting lineup next season.

Veltman has played 191 matches for Brighton & Hove Albion. Transfermarkt value him at €1.5m.