Brighton man makes AFC Wimbledon loan switch – with contract boost before exit
Brighton striker Ryan Longman has joined AFC Wimbledon on a season-long loan.
The 19-year-old is the seventh addition made by the League One club.
Longman was a target for the Dons in the January transfer window after he impressed for Albion’s U23 side in a 2-0 EFL Trophy win.
Wimbledon manager Glyn Hodges said: “Ryan played very well and we’ve kept tabs on him ever since.
“We tried to bring him here in January, but he wasn’t fit enough to come, so this is a signing that we pursued all summer. He was always on our list, but his new contract at Brighton had to be sorted out before we could bring him here.
“He can play anywhere up front -wide left, right, or down the middle. We see him as a centre forward, but he will help us to change what we want to do at times.
“He is a mobile runner, strong and athletic, with two good feet, so we are lucky to have him. He will give us good options up front with his pace.”
Longman joined Brighton’s academy at the age of 11.
He signed a new two-year deal with the Seagulls on Monday.
“I need to show the manager at Brighton that I can play men’s football and I’m ready for the step-up. I think coming to Wimbledon will definitely prove that. My strong points are getting in behind defenders and finishing.
“Brighton have given me two years to prove myself and try and make it. It gives me the chance to focus on my football and offers me that security,
“Seeing boys you’ve played alongside like Aaron Connolly getting into the first team gives us the belief that there is that pathway.”
PICTURE: AFC WIMBLEDON
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