Alireza Jahanbakhsh says it was the right time to leave AZ Alkmaar for Brighton.

The winger signed for Brighton last month in a bumper €25m transfer.

"After the season I had to decide what my next step would be," said Jahanbakhsh. "I've talked a lot about that with people I trust, and it's finally become Brighton.

"It was clear that I had to make a step after the season I played, to be honest it was difficult to leave the Netherlands, I have had a good time here, it was good years for me.

"The best option was in England, where the level is very high. I have spoken to the Brighton coach (Chris Hughton) before, and he likes to use wide players."