Champions League
Brighton secures Union’s Canadian striker Promise David on loan
Union announced the departure of 25‑year‑old Canadian forward Promise David as Brighton & Hove Albion secure his services on a one‑season loan with an option to buy, marking the Belgian club’s loss of a prolific striker.
Loan agreement
Brighton, a Premier League side, will have David for the 2026‑27 campaign, with a purchase clause that activates if certain criteria are met. The deal is a straight loan for one season, giving the English club a chance to assess the Canadian attacker in England’s top flight.
David’s Union tenure
David arrived at Union in the summer of 2024 after spells in the Estonian and Maltese top divisions. He quickly became a key figure, scoring 11 goals in the regular Jupiler Pro League season and adding eight more in the Champions’ play‑offs, a tally that revived Union’s historic standing.
He recorded Union’s first ever Champions League goal in a match against PSV and later netted the solitary goal versus Galatasaray. His contributions helped Union capture the Supercup against Club Brugge, adding a fourth trophy to his résumé.
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Across 82 appearances for the Belgian cup winners, David amassed 41 goals and nine assists. The club’s statement thanked him for “all the beautiful moments, goals and trophies” and wished him success in the Premier League.
After the league match against Zulte Waregem, Union chairman Alex Muzio embraced David, underscoring the emotional farewell. Brighton’s scouting remarks highlighted his “pure striker” profile, physical qualities and proven goal‑scoring record.
Other Union exits
This summer also saw other key players leave Union: defender Christian Burgess joined KAA Gent, midfielder Anan Khalaili moved to Crystal Palace, and goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen transferred to Ipswich Town.
Union competes in the Jupiler Pro League and the Challenger Pro League, while Brighton operates in the Premier League. The move touches several competitions – LeagueChallenger, LeagueChampions, LeagueEuropa, LeagueConference and LeagueMeer – reflecting the broad landscape of European football.