BRIGHTON are winning the race for £16million Dutch keeper Bart Verbruggen.
The Seagulls hope to beat Burnley to the No 1 who is one of the best prospects in Europe.
Burnley boss Vincent Kompany saw a £13m bid rejected by his old club Anderlecht for 20-year-old Verbruggen.
Brighton plans to offer more and then talk the player into joining them where his ability with the ball at his feet would be a major asset.
Verbruggen has turned down past advances from Liverpool and Manchester United because he wants to play first-team football.
Jason Steele replaced Robert Sanchez in goal for Brighton’s run-in as they reached Europe for the first time, finishing sixth in the Prem to reach the Europa League.
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Sanchez was dropped in early March and then asked to train away from the first-team squad.
Despite his numerous impressive displays, Verbruggen has yet to be called up for Netherlands duty.
But Anderlecht‘s goalkeeping coach believes it’s only a matter of time before he wins his first Oranje cap.
Frank Boeckx told Sporza: “If he performs well there and continues to show himself at Anderlecht, then the Oranje is a logical next step.
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“Bart has an incredible work ethic; wanting to get better.
“His meticulous match preparation and his will to understand the opponent. For someone his age, that’s special.
“Bart is already very mature at the age of 20.
“How he succeeded [Hendrick] Van Crombrugge – captain and a big name – without blinking, shows his mental strength.
“His footballing qualities are also exceptional.
“The way he sees and executes passes, both short and long. His athleticism is also very good.
“He has all the qualities of a modern goalkeeper.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
