Bart Verbruggen insists he is fully focused on Brighton and the Netherlands despite reported interest from Barcelona and Bayern Munich earlier this year. The 23-year-old stopper, who has cemented his status as first-choice at the Amex, admitted it is “always a compliment” to be linked with Europe’s giants but stressed nothing concrete has ever been on the table.
Back in April, Bayern were tipped to monitor Verbruggen as they prepared for summer changes, while Barcelona briefly considered him before opting to sign Joan García from Espanyol. For now, Verbruggen says speculation is irrelevant as he concentrates on club and country.
Verbruggen on Barca & Bayern Links
Speaking to Soccer News ahead of the Netherlands’ World Cup qualifier against Poland, Verbruggen gave a measured response to the rumours:
“It’s always a compliment to be associated with such big clubs, but I haven’t been thinking about it that much.” — Bart Verbruggen, via Soccer News
He added that fitness was his only focus after a knee issue over the summer:
“My agent keeps me out of it. If something becomes very concrete and choices have to be made, I’ll hear about it.”
Brighton and Netherlands Focus
Verbruggen has been central to Brighton’s rebuild under Fabian Hürzeler. With a contract running until 2028, the Seagulls are under no pressure to sell. The keeper himself is calm about his future:
“It’s important to stay calm and take everything step by step. The focus this week is on the Dutch national team, playing the qualifying matches and achieving good results.”
Bart Verbruggen Stats Snapshot (Brighton 2024/25)
| Stat (2024/25) | Bart Verbruggen |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 36 |
| Clean Sheets | 10 |
| Saves Made | 124 |
| Save Percentage | 72% |
source: sofascore match data – 2 September 2025
The stats underline why Europe’s biggest clubs have kept tabs: reliable shot-stopping and consistent distribution from the back.
Analyst Verdict — John William
Verbruggen’s approach is mature and pragmatic. At 23, he has time on his side, and Brighton offers the perfect environment to develop further. While Barca and Bayern may return in future windows, for now he is right to focus on stabilising his game and building international pedigree with the Netherlands.
For Brighton, his long contract is key. If Europe’s elite do come knocking, the Seagulls will command a huge fee — exactly the kind of situation the club has built its model on.
Key Insights
- Verbruggen says Barca & Bayern links are “always a compliment.”
- Stresses focus is on Brighton and Netherlands after summer knee issue.
- Contracted at Brighton until 2028 — no pressure to sell.
- Barcelona signed Joan García instead this summer.
- Stats (2024/25): 36 apps, 10 clean sheets, 72% save percentage.
What’s Next for Verbruggen?
Verbruggen is set to start for the Netherlands in qualifiers against Poland and Lithuania. At club level, Brighton face a tough run in September with Premier League and European fixtures testing Hürzeler’s young squad.
Long-term, the keeper will remain on the radar of Europe’s giants — but for now, Brighton fans can be reassured by his loyalty and grounded approach.
Will Bart Verbruggen stay at Brighton for the long haul — or is a mega-money move to Barca or Bayern still on the horizon?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 4 Sep 2025 10:15
See you at Chelsea next season! Might swap Sanchez and get some cash for Bart.
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