Albion appear to have pulled off a transfer coup by landing Ajax and Holland defender Joel Veltman.

They have fought off strong competition to secure the 28-year-old.

The Seagulls activated a release clause of one million euros - or a little over £900,000.

Veltman has been with Ajax for 18 years and can play in central defence or as a right-back. He joins the Seagulls on a three-year contract.

Head coach Graham Potter said: “We’re delighted to welcome Joel to the club. He has terrific experience from his time with Ajax including the Champions League and, of course, with the Dutch national team.

“He’s an excellent defender who can play at right-back and at centre half, but he’s also comfortable in possession.

“He is really looking forward to the challenge of playing in the Premier League and we’re delighted he is now a Brighton player and we’re looking forward to working with him.”

Veltman made his Ajax debut in 2012, having come through the club’s Academy system.

He has made more than 200 appearances for the Dutch giants, scoring ten goals. He has won four Eredivisie titles and played regularly in the Champions League.

He has won 22 caps for his country, the most recent in November when he helped Netherlands qualify for Euro 2021 with a goalless draw against Northern Ireland in Belfast.