West Ham United have completed the signing of experienced defender Joël Veltman as Nuno Espírito Santo continues rebuilding his squad for a promotion challenge.
The 34-year-old has joined the Hammers as a free agent after leaving Brighton and Hove Albion at the end of last season. He has signed an initial one-year contract, which reportedly includes the option of a further year, and will wear the number 34 shirt.
Veltman rejected the offer of a new deal at Brighton to pursue a fresh opportunity, bringing his six-year stay on the south coast to an end. He made 191 appearances in all competitions for the Seagulls, scoring five goals, after arriving from Ajax for around £900,000 in 2020.
The defender can operate at right-back or in central defence, giving Nuno an experienced and versatile option ahead of West Ham’s Championship campaign. Veltman also brings considerable experience from his time with Ajax, where he made 246 senior appearances and won three Eredivisie titles.
He has represented the Netherlands on 28 occasions and was part of the squad that finished third at the 2014 World Cup. His arrival provides West Ham with another established leader as they attempt to secure an immediate return to the Premier League following relegation last season.
“I’m delighted to have signed, and I can’t wait to get started. The project here really excites me,” he said.
“I spoke to Nuno, as well as my family and my agent, and everything added up. We know that West Ham need to be in the Premier League, and for sure that is our goal for the season.
“I think I bring my experience, my winning mentality and togetherness. I bring leadership. I’ve been the captain at Ajax, and I enjoy talking to my teammates and using my experience to help the squad.
“I’m just so excited to give everything, to meet my new teammates and to see all the supporters too.”
Veltman becomes West Ham’s second permanent addition of the summer. The club have already activated a reported £1 million option to sign Venezuelan winger Keiber Lamadrid permanently following his loan spell from Deportivo La Guaira.
Further business is expected before the transfer deadline after the Hammers raised substantial funds through the departures of Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes. The pair were reportedly sold for combined fees of around £145 million, with Fernandes joining Tottenham Hotspur for £85 million.
West Ham are now looking to strengthen their midfield and have held discussions regarding Celtic’s Arne Engels. Negotiations are not thought to be at an advanced stage, although the London club are expected to pursue a deal as Nuno shapes a squad capable of competing for promotion.
Mexico captain Edson Álvarez could also depart before the window closes, with Ajax and Real Sociedad reportedly interested. Veltman’s arrival represents an important first step in the defensive rebuild, adding leadership, versatility and extensive top-flight experience without requiring a transfer fee.