'I have changed agent' - Brighton's brilliant Dutch defender set for talks as contract ticks down
All the latest transfer and contract news for Brighton and Hove Albion
Brighton have a crunch decision to make on experienced Dutch defender Joel Veltman.
The 34-year-old has been a key figure for Brighton of late but is out of contract this summer.
Veltman has started four of the last five matches in all competitions and has clocked up 15 appearances in total this season.
His value to the squad has been highlighted once again as Brighton's regular right back this season, Mats Wieffer, is out with a toe injury.
Veltman's calm displays have impressed head coach Fabian Hurzeler, who praised Veltman last week for “putting his ego below the needs of the squad.”
Hurzeler has already stated he wants to work with veterans Danny Welbeck and James Milner - both of whom are out of contract this summer - but, as yet, there has been no word on Veltman’s situation.
The former Ajax man was also uncertain on what will happen this summer.
“I am quite open,” Veltman said to The Athletic after Monday's 1-1 draw against Bournemouth at the Amex Stadium.
“I have changed agents, the club knows that. So, I think the club wanted me to sort that out first and then we will have a conversation.
“It happened last week, so maybe between now and a month’s time we will have more (talks). If not then I will keep my options open.”
Veltman has proved to be a bargain signing
Veltman joined Brighton for a bargain £900,000 from Ajax in 2020 and has made 178 appearances for the Seagulls. His consistency and straight forward style made him a firm favourite with previous managers Graham Potter, Roberto De Zerbi and now Hurzeler.
Veltman added: “I am happy here. They know what I am still capable of as well.
"My kids go to English school. They speak better English than Dutch, so they are all good things, but like I said I’ll keep my options open for now.”