Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of Pascal Struijk from Leeds United, with the club confirming the deal was struck for undisclosed terms. The Dutch defender has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at the Amex Stadium after making 196 appearances for the Whites.
Transfer at a glance
- Player: Pascal Struijk
- From: Leeds United
- To: Brighton & Hove Albion
- Contract: Five years
- Fee: Undisclosed
- Age: 26
- Position: Centre-back
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler was quick to welcome his new recruit, praising both the defender's top-flight pedigree and the leadership qualities he showed during his time at Elland Road.
"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. He is an excellent addition to the group and I am looking forward to working with him."
From Ajax academy graduate to Premier League regular
Struijk joined Leeds from Ajax back in 2018, working his way through the club's academy before making his first team debut in December 2019. Since then, the centre-back has become a fixture of the Leeds backline, enjoying two promotions from the Championship along the way.
Last season, the Dutchman helped guide Leeds to a 14th place finish in the Premier League, as well as a run to the FA Cup semi-finals, further underlining his growing reputation as a dependable top-flight defender. Struijk has also represented the Netherlands at youth level, adding international pedigree to his profile.
What Struijk brings to Brighton
The move addresses a defensive area Brighton have been keen to strengthen this summer, bringing in a centre-back with genuine Premier League experience and leadership credentials to bolster Hurzeler's options at the back. At 26, Struijk arrives with what his new head coach believes are his peak years still ahead of him, making the five-year commitment from both parties a long-term statement of intent.
The deal forms part of a busy summer window at the Amex, with Struijk's arrival following the earlier signings of Zadok Yohanna and Costinha, and coming shortly after Jan Paul van Hecke's departure to Tottenham Hotspur. You can track this and every other confirmed deal in our Premier League Transfers Summer 2026 hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions surrounding Pascal Struijk's move to Brighton.
Which club has Pascal Struijk signed for?
Pascal Struijk has signed for Brighton & Hove Albion after completing a transfer from Leeds United.
How long is Pascal Struijk's contract at Brighton?
Struijk has signed a five-year contract with Brighton & Hove Albion.
How many appearances did Pascal Struijk make for Leeds United?
Struijk made 196 appearances for Leeds United across his time at the club, having joined from Ajax in 2018.
What did Fabian Hurzeler say about signing Pascal Struijk?
Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler praised Struijk's Premier League experience, his defensive qualities on the ball, and his leadership, noting he had worn the captain's armband for Leeds last season.
Did Pascal Struijk play international football?
Pascal Struijk has represented the Netherlands at youth level.