Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joël Veltman hasn’t ruled out the possibility of signing a new deal at The Amex.
The defender has a deal expiring in June and his contract situation hasn’t impacted his game time with the Seagulls. He’s featured 27 times in the league, managing a goal and an assist in the process.
Voetbal International asked the 31-year-old about his future plans and his quotes are relayed by Soccernews. The right-back is happy with his life at Brighton while has also kept the door open to join another club in the next window.
“I am happy, but I am also open to other options,” he said.
The Netherlands international joined the Seagulls from Ajax in 2020, after spending eight seasons with the Eredivisie side. Veltman has ruled out a return to Ajax and revealed the destinations he would prefer, if he were to leave Brighton in the summer.
“I’m having a good time in England, but Italy or Spain would also be nice. Returning to Ajax is not an option for me now,” Veltman explained.
“My name, and also that of Kenny Tete, has been linked to Ajax in the past period, perhaps because of Devyne Rensch’s injury and because Jorge Sánchez was criticised, but there has never been any contact with Ajax.
“It would be nice if we could reach the cup final with Brighton, following Ajax. I also hope that Ajax will be at least second. I will remain an Ajax player and continue to follow the club, but I now feel great and I am at an age where I can sign a nice contract abroad again. That chance will be smaller again at the age of 34. I am curious about my options after this season. Especially if we really make history with Brighton.”
AS Roma could be an option for the Dutchman in Italy. On Monday, Romagiallorossa.it stated the Serie A side have already taken first steps to sign him and they are optimistic of securing the player’s services for free.
