---
title: "Brighton: Deal agreed for South African forward"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/brighton-deal-agreed-for-south-african-forward/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Tommy Joyce"
section: "Brighton & Hove Albion"
published: "2019-07-21T19:05:13Z"
modified: "2020-04-05T10:29:06Z"
---

# Brighton: Deal agreed for South African forward

**Brighton and Hove Albion forward Percy Tau looks to be edging closer to a move away from the Premier League, according to [reports from Belgian site HNL](https://www.hln.be/sport/voetbal/transfer-talk-club-praat-met-ex-smaakmaker-union-waasland-beveren-kaapt-winger-weg-bij-buffalo-s~aee6041f/).**

The South African striker has not been able to secure a work permit since joining the club in 2018 and was thus sent on loan to Belgian side Union SG in the Belgium second-tier – [also owned by Brighton owner Tony Bloom.](https://www.theargus.co.uk/sport/16239606.done-deal-albion-chairman-tony-bloom-completes-takeover-of-belgian-club-saint-gilloise/)

The 25-year-old still has three years remaining on his contract at Brighton but will be unable to represent the Seagulls as he still cannot obtain a work permit to play in England.

Belgian Jupiler League runners-up Club Brugge are now reported to be leading the line for the signature of Tau, who had a fantastic season last year scoring 13 goals and assisting 13 ([Transfermarkt](https://www.transfermarkt.com/percy-tau/leistungsdaten/spieler/312239/plus/0?saison=2018)).

The report does not suggest whether the deal is a loan or a permanent transfer, however, talks between the two clubs are allegedly moving in the ‘right direction’.

![](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/THE-BREAKDOWN.png)

It’s perhaps not a surprise that Percy Tau will be exiting the club considering his struggles in obtaining a work permit.

In 35 games for Union SG, he was a constant threat, as shown by [his impressive goal record and assist return for the club.](https://www.transfermarkt.com/percy-tau/leistungsdaten/spieler/312239/plus/0?saison=2018)

Therefore, he is able to play there in Europe while working towards citizenship, so it makes sense for him to go there if he wants to stay and play football on the continent.

![](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Verdict.png)

The 25-year-old has a good opportunity to join a team competing at the highest level, as they will play in the Champions League next season after [finishing second](https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/fc-brugge/platzierungen/verein/2282). The forward proved he could do it in the second division last year so it will be a big step up for the South African.

Brighton fans might be hoping that he goes out on loan rather than on a permanent deal, as if he has a good season next year then he might have a future at the club if a work permit can be secured or if he picks up Belgian citizenship after one more season.

***Brighton fans, what are your thoughts regarding Tau’s potential exit? Let us know your thoughts by sharing them in the comments section below!***