Virgil Van Dijk and Real Madrid star: Brighton’s most disappointing transfer near-misses
Brighton have come close to signing a number of exceptional talents in years gone by.
20.06.25, 11:34 Updated 22.05.26, 14:48 3 Minute Read
Charlie Parker-Turner
The transfer window is always filled with rumours and reports from hundreds of sources claiming X player is going here and Y player is going there. Potential signings create plenty of hype within a fanbase so when a deal falls through, it can be a hammer blow.
Brighton are regarded as one of the best teams in the market, but they have also had their fair share of near-misses. Let’s take a look…
Virgil Van Dijk – FC Groningen
Following promotion to the Championship, Brighton looked to further strengthen their squad in the 2013 January transfer window. They travelled to Holland to watch the then-young centre-back Virgil van Dijk and promptly submitted a bid.
However, the Seagulls’ offer fell short of his £2.5m valuation and it was rejected. Van Dijk has gone on to make over 300 Premier League appearances and assert himself as one of the best defenders of all-time.
Become a member today.
The Brighton Base needs its community to support independent, high-quality coverage of Brighton & Hove Albion. Subscribe to a monthly or annual package today to be a part of something special.
Already have an account? Sign in
Related Topics
Charlie Parker-Turner Editor