Joel Veltman has said goodbye to Brighton after six years at the Amex, with the defender now closing in on a free transfer to West Ham United.
The 34-year-old left Albion when his contract expired earlier this summer after making 191 appearances for the club.
Brighton had offered Veltman the chance to stay, but the former Ajax defender decided the time was right for another challenge. ReadBrighton covered his departure and the experience Fabian Hürzeler would need to replace.
Veltman has now reflected warmly on his time on the south coast.
“Six years ago, I joined this club not knowing just how amazing this journey would be,” he wrote in his farewell message, thanking supporters for making his family feel at home.
Joel Veltman set for West Ham move
His next destination now appears increasingly clear.
Voetbal International reports that Veltman has successfully completed a West Ham medical and should sign his contract in London shortly.
The Dutchman had been keeping fit with Ajax while considering his future and also received approaches from Strasbourg and Botafogo.
West Ham ultimately proved the most attractive option.
For Brighton, it closes another chapter in a major defensive rebuild.
Veltman was rarely Albion’s most glamorous player, but his versatility, experience and reliability made him hugely valuable across six seasons.
He leaves with European football secured once again and with the appreciation of a fanbase who quickly recognised exactly what he brought to the club.
