Brighton & Hove Albion have bolstered their defensive lineup with the acquisition of Belgian full-back Maxim De Cuyper from Club Brugge on a five-year contract. The 24-year-old defender joins the Premier League side after a successful tenure in Belgium, where he contributed significantly to Club Brugge’s recent successes.
De Cuyper began his professional career with Club Brugge, making his senior debut in February 2020 during a UEFA Europa League match against Manchester United. His development continued with a two-year loan spell at KVC Westerlo, where he played a pivotal role in their promotion to the Belgian Pro League. Upon returning to Brugge, De Cuyper became a regular starter, showcasing his versatility and creativity across various positions. His performances were instrumental in Club Brugge securing the Belgian Pro League title in the 2023-24 season and the Belgian Cup in the subsequent campaign.
Internationally, De Cuyper earned his first senior cap for Belgium in June 2024 during a 2-0 victory over Montenegro. Since then, he has accumulated 10 caps, scoring three goals, and has been recognized for his dynamic play on the international stage.
Brighton head coach Fabian Huerzeler expressed enthusiasm about De Cuyper’s arrival, highlighting his reputation for creativity and adaptability. “He has a great reputation for creativity and has shown his ability across different positions, although we primarily see him challenging for a left-back spot with us,” Huerzeler stated. This acquisition aligns with Brighton’s strategic focus on enhancing their defensive options ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
The transfer fee for De Cuyper is reported to be around €20 million, potentially rising with add-ons. This move underscores Brighton’s commitment to strengthening their squad with young, talented players capable of making an immediate impact in the Premier League.
De Cuyper’s arrival is expected to provide Brighton with a dynamic option on the left flank, offering both defensive solidity and attacking support. His experience in European competitions and domestic success with Club Brugge will be invaluable as Brighton aims to build on their previous season’s performance and challenge for higher league positions.
As Brighton prepares for the new season, the addition of De Cuyper is seen as a significant step towards achieving their objectives in the Premier League. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Belgian defender integrates into Brighton’s tactical setup and contributes to the team’s aspirations in the forthcoming campaign.
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