Brighton’s Joel Veltman emerges as Barcelona transfer target | OneFootball

According to Diario Sport, Barcelona are interested in ex-Ajax defender Joel Veltman. The 31-year-old’s current contract at Brighton & Hove Albion expires in June, meaning Barca could potentially bring him to the Camp Nou without having to pay a transfer fee.

Veltman joined Brighton from Ajax in the summer of 2020, having won three Eredivisie titles and a KNVB Cup. He has since gone on to make over 100 appearances for the Seagulls, with 32 of those games coming this season. The Dutchman can play as a central defender or as a full-back.

Barcelona are said to be searching for a new full-back. This season, head coach Xavi Hernandez has been utilising Jules Kounde at right-back, although the Frenchman’s preferred position is in the centre of defence. Veltman could be a brilliant back up option for Barcelona. He’d provide competition to the likes of Kounde and Sergi Roberto, whilst being able to fill in any available spots across Barca’s back line.

Current Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi has played Joel Veltman in 27 of the 32 games he has been in charge of. Veltman has played a crucial role in Brighton’s push for European football. The Netherlands international also has previous Champions League experience, having reached the semi-final of the competition with Ajax in 2019.

GBeNeFN | Hugo Hargreaves