Joel Veltman knows anything less than immediate promotion back to the Premier League is unacceptable for West Ham this season, having joined on a free transfer from Brighton.

Veltman left the Seagulls when his contract expired at the end of last term, having made 191 appearances for the Seagulls in all competitions, including 165 in the Premier League. 

The full-back – who previously captained Ajax and won 28 senior caps for the Netherlands between 2013 and 2021 – was with Brighton for six years, helping them qualify for Europe twice.

But in 2026-27, he will play in the second tier of English football after penning an initial one-year deal with Nuno Espirito Santo's side.

"I'm delighted to have signed, and I can't wait to get started. The project here really excites me," Veltman told West Ham's website.

Mind your head, Joël  pic.twitter.com/DoP8veFSLW

— West Ham United (@WestHam) August 6, 2026

"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 team-mates and using my experience to help the squad."

The 34-year-old could make his West Ham debut when they face Portsmouth in the first round of the EFL Cup on Saturday, with their opening Championship fixture coming eight days later, against fellow relegated side Burnley.