The permanent transfer is understood to be worth 22 million pounds, while the Belgian club said the deal represents a record fee for David.

David, 25, joined Union in 2024 and quickly established himself as one of their leading scorers. He netted 19 goals in his first season as the club won the Belgian league title for the first time in 90 years, and finished his Union career with 41 goals and nine assists from 82 appearances.

His career has taken him through several countries since starting out in Canada, with spells in Croatia, the United States and Malta preceding a move to Estonian club Nomme Kalju.

David made his Canada debut last year after switching his international allegiance from Nigeria. He has since earned 14 caps and scored four goals, including at the recent World Cup, where he featured in five of Canada's six matches.

Brighton sporting director Mike Cave believes the striker's physical qualities and scoring record make him a strong addition.

"Promise is someone we have been watching for some time, he is an out-and-out striker who possesses outstanding physical attributes and a track record of scoring goals," Cave said.

"His experience at international level and in European competition will hopefully prove valuable this season.

"At 25, he's entering his prime playing years and we're excited to see him continue to develop in our environment."

David joins Brighton ahead of a busy start to the campaign, with the club facing Tromso in the Europa Conference League play-offs on Thursday before opening their Premier League season against Aston Villa on Sunday.

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