Brighton sign Leeds defender Pascal Struijk

Brighton have officially signed Leeds United defender Pascal Struijk. The deal is understood to be worth approximately £20 million, with the 26-year-old centre-back committing to a five-year contract with the Seagulls.

Struijk joined the Leeds youth setup from Ajax in 2018 before breaking into the first team. During his time at Elland Road, he made 196 appearances, including 34 Premier League matches last season.

Pascal is exactly the sort of profile we wanted to add to the squad this summer, in that he's got good Premier League experience and has his peak years ahead of him. He really showcased what he's capable of last season - great defensive actions while comfortable on the ball - with his style well suited to ours. He is also a leader, having worn the captain's armband at times for Leeds last season. Fabian Hurzeler

Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler praised the arrival, noting Struijk's leadership and technical comfort as key factors in the acquisition. The defender frequently wore the captain's armband for Leeds during the previous campaign.

This move follows the departure of centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke, who was sold to Tottenham for £52 million earlier this summer, marking a significant adjustment to Brighton's defensive roster.