Albion have today signed Belgian defender Lars Dendoncker on a two-year contract.
The former Bruges youth team player has signed for Simon Rusk’s under-23s and is looking forward to establishing himself in England.
He said, “I’m very happy to be a Brighton player, it’s a lovely set-up which made it an easy choice to sign for the club.
“[Head Coach] Graham Potter uses young players and that attracted me. Also, the stadium and training ground are fantastic and English football is the best in the world.”
Lars’ older brother Leander made a permanent switch from Anderlecht to Wolves last summer following a season-long loan and they have talked a lot about what Lars can expect.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to play in England,” he added. “I spoke with him and he told me England is something you have to experience.
“He said there are a lot of good coaches that will help you and make you a better player – not just tactically but physically and every other aspect of the game. He said it was a lot of fun and that I had to do it.”
Dendoncker has represented Belgium from under-15 to under-19 level and is a central defender who can also operate in midfield.
He added, “My best position is defence. I’m tall and strong in the air and I’m comfortable with both feet and feel I have good vision for passes.
“I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the squad now and starting my journey here with Brighton.”
Under-23s head coach Simon Rusk said, “We’re delighted to welcome Lars to the club and look forward to working with him and helping his development.”