West Ham sign ex-Brighton defender Joel Veltman on free transfer | OneFootball

West Ham have signed ex-Brighton defender Joel Veltman on a free transfer. The Dutchman has agreed a one-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.

The 34-year-old, who can play at right-back or centre-back, left the south coast club this summer after six years. He told the club’s media he was delighted to join and keen to get started.

The project appealed after talks with head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, his family and his agent, and a return to the Premier League is the target this season.

Experience, a winning mentality and leadership are what he intends to bring, having captained Ajax, with a desire to help the squad. He is excited to meet new team-mates and supporters.

Veltman joined Brighton in 2020 and made 191 appearances. He has 28 caps for the Netherlands, helped them reach the 2014 World Cup semi-finals, and was in their Euro 2021 squad.

West Ham face Portsmouth in the EFL Cup first round on Saturday, then begin their Championship campaign against Burnley on August 16.

Source: NY Times

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