Brighton defender departs on transfer deadline day for Belgian outfit

The England under-20 defender will join the Belgian B League side, who currently sit second in the table and are also owned by Brighton chairman Tony Bloom.

Technical director Dan Ashworth commented, “This is a great opportunity for Alex to go and play with Union in Belgium.

“He has made really good progress over recent seasons with our under-23s, and now he can go and get some experience of senior football.

“Our loans team led by David Weir will monitor Alex’s progress and watch his games; we wish him well for the season ahead.”

Brighton-born Cochrane has graduated through Albion’s academy youth teams, and has been captain of the under-23s.

The 20-year-old has made two first team appearances, one last and one this season, both in the Carabao Cup.

He has also represented England at under-16 level, and returned to the international fold last year for the under-20s.