Brighton star Joël Veltman ‘on verge’ of exit despite contract offer

Brighton & Hove Albion could be preparing to say goodbye to one of their most experienced players, with reports from the Netherlands suggesting Joël Veltman is edging closer to a summer departure despite receiving a contract offer from the club.

According to Voetbal International, Brighton have made a serious proposal to extend the defender's stay at the Amex Stadium. The 34-year-old remains highly valued by the club and has enjoyed positive discussions regarding a new deal.

However, negotiations have reportedly stalled in recent weeks, leaving Veltman on the verge of leaving as a free agent after five seasons on the south coast.

Veltman has remained an important figure under Fabian Hürzeler despite entering the latter stages of his career.

The Dutch international featured in 28 matches during the 2025/26 campaign, accumulating 1,360 minutes across several defensive positions. While primarily deployed at right-back, Hürzeler also used him elsewhere in defence when required.

His versatility and experience played a role in Brighton securing qualification for next season's UEFA Conference League, a campaign that highlighted the value of experienced leaders within a relatively young squad.

The Seagulls' decision to offer a new contract underlines their desire to retain him. Reports suggest Veltman appreciates the respect and trust shown by the club, making this far from a straightforward contract dispute.

Instead, the issue appears to be driven by the player's desire for a fresh challenge.

Despite being settled at Brighton, Voetbal International reports that Veltman is actively considering the next step in his career.

A return to the Netherlands remains a possibility, with Ajax repeatedly linked with their former academy graduate over the past two years. Veltman has previously acknowledged that a move back to Amsterdam appeals to him at some stage of his career.

Last autumn, he openly discussed the prospect of returning to Ajax while also hinting that Brighton had presented an extension proposal.

Now, with his contract situation unresolved, opportunities elsewhere are emerging.

The report states that clubs from both Spain and Germany have approached the defender, although no specific teams have been identified.

That leaves Veltman with several options as he weighs up whether to remain in the Premier League or pursue a final major challenge abroad.

The coming weeks are likely to be decisive. Brighton will need clarity over Veltman's future before fully finalising their summer recruitment plans, particularly at right-back.

For the player, the decision appears to revolve around whether to continue in a familiar environment or pursue one final challenge elsewhere. With interest emerging from multiple countries and Ajax still monitoring the situation, a resolution could arrive before pre-season preparations are fully underway.

Should Brighton push harder to keep Joël Veltman, or is this the right moment for both player and club to move on?