Official: Bart Verbruggen to Brighton & Hove Albion

TRANSFERS We had to wait a while for it, but the expected transfer of goalkeeper Verbruggen to Brighton & Hove Albion has been officially announced by both clubs. Verbruggen signs with the Premier League club until 2028 and becomes by far the goalkeeper from the Belgian league who was paid the most.


According to rumours, Anderlecht would get around €20 million for the young Dutchman (of which it does already owe NAC a part). Verbruggen came over for €300,000 in the summer of 2020. In January, Verbruggen got his chance in the first team and did so in outstanding fashion. In the dramatic season, he still kept his nets clean eight times in seventeen games. In the cup, he played a major role in the match at Lierse.

Even more crucial was his role in Europe with, in particular, saving the first three penalties in the decisive penalty shoot-out against Ludogorets. That Anderlecht stayed upright in Villarreal was also largely down to some great saves from Verbruggen. Verbruggen also recently stood under the crossbar at the European Championship -21 for the Netherlands where he was able to avert defeat against Belgium. In total, Verbruggen played only 44 games for Purple and White, 31 of which were with the first team. Burnley were also interested in the goalkeeper.

CEO Fredberg: "This move is the best strategic choice both for him and for RSCA. We wish Bart enormous success in what will undoubtedly be a wonderful career."

Bart Verbruggen: "Playing in the Premier League has always been a childhood dream. That that dream is now coming true, I also owe it to the club. I want to sincerely thank all the fans and everyone within the club and wish you all the best of luck in the future."

 

With love. ? pic.twitter.com/CaSphtMurA

— RSC Anderlecht (@rscanderlecht) July 3, 2023

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