Leeds United defender Pascal Struijk is set to join Brighton after a deal in principle was agreed between the two Premier League clubs. The fee for the 26-year-old centre-back is undisclosed but understood to be about £20m.

What happened?

Leeds United signed Dutchman Struijk for their under-23s from Ajax in January 2018 before he graduated to the first team. He made 196 appearances for the Whites, including 34 in the Premier League last season.

Why it matters for Leeds United

The transfer comes as Leeds United prepares for the 2026-27 campaign, with the club currently standing 14th in the Premier League, 47 points from 38 games, and 38 points behind leaders Arsenal.

What comes next?

Leeds United will face Augsburg in their final pre-season fixture, after releasing their full summer pre-season fixture list. The club will take a tour of the US in July before returning home to face two German teams, RB Leipzig and Augsburg.

DateOpponentVenue
26 JulyWrexhamRaymond James Stadium, Tampa
31 JulySunderlandSports Illustrated Stadium, New Jersey
2 AugustLiverpoolSoldier Field, Chicago

The club is also linked with a move for Julian Brandt, who is available on a free transfer after leaving Borussia Dortmund this summer. Daniel Farke's side are also linked with a free transfer for Welsh international Harry Wilson following his departure from Fulham.

As of 28 June 2026, Leeds United's current league standing is: | Category | Value | | --- | --- | | League Standing | 14th in Premier League | | Points | 47 pts | | Recent Form | LWDWD | | Goals This Season | 49 scored, 56 conceded (-7 goal difference) | | Title Race | 38 points behind leaders Arsenal | | Currently Sidelined | I. Gruev, G. Gudmundsson, S. Longstaff, N. Okafor, A. Stach |