Official: Brighton Signs Verbruggen From Anderlecht

Brighton & Hove Albion has successfully secured the services of Bart Verbruggen, one of the most talented young goalkeepers in Europe, in a notable transfer deal from Anderlecht for a fee of £16 million.

The Dutch international has committed to a lengthy five-year contract, binding him to the club until the summer of 2028.

Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi said: “I am very pleased to have signed Bart. He is used to playing a type of football similar to ours and he will have no problem fitting into our group.

“He has the potential to become a very important player for the club in the coming years.”

Verburggen becomes Brighton’s fourth major signing of the summer, following Brazil forward Joao Pedro from Watford, Liverpool’s James Milner, and Germany midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud from Borussia Dortmund.

The 20-year-old keeper started his career at NAC Breda in the Netherlands before completing a 300,000 euros (£257,000) move to Anderlecht in 2020.

He helped them to an 11th-placed finish in the league and the quarter-finals of the Europa Conference League, where they lost on penalties to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar.