Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joël Veltman has insisted he’s happy with his life at The Amex.
The Netherlands international has been speaking to Voetbal Primeur, explaining that he is appreciated by everyone at Brighton.
Veltman joined the Premier League club from Ajax in 2020 and signed a contract until the end of this season.
According to Voetbal Primeur, the Seagulls have an option to extend it further and the 33-year-old claims they are likely to exercise it.
“There is still an option in the contract. In the coming weeks we will see how we are going to do this. There is no rush. How I see it myself? It is a real option to sign,” he said.
The defender has maintained his place at Brighton since Fabian Hürzeler replaced Roberto De Zerbi last summer.
He made 19 appearances this season and says he is at the ‘right place’ with the English club. The former Ajax man is open to finishing his career at The Amex.
“I’m very happy here. I feel the appreciation from the owner to the players and people and volunteers who work here. I am in the right place. This is my second home. I have lived in Amsterdam and in Brighton during my career,” Veltman explained.
There’s been no reports of the player leaving Brighton in the winter market, but he has still ruled out an exit in this window.
The Dutchman spent 19 years at the Eredivisie club before leaving them for Brighton. Last summer, he had discussions with Ajax technical director Alex Kroes, but there’s been no contact recently from them.
“Last summer, I phoned Alex Kroes. There was some contact then. Now there has been no contact. I know how it works. The finances have to be there, just like there has to be a spot available. If Ajax really want it: they can call me, they have my number,” he added.