At a glance
- Liverpool are eyeing Brighton defender
- Jan Paul van Hecke has admirers
- Brighton face summer decision
Brighton & Hove Albion could face a big summer decision over Jan Paul van Hecke, with interest in the defender now growing ahead of the transfer window.
Van Hacke has become one of the Seagulls’ most reliable players, but interest in his services appears to be growing in the Premier League.
Losing the Dutchman would be a major blow for Fabian Hurzeler’s side, considering his importance in Brighton’s back four.
However, it appears that multiple clubs are interested in the 25-year-old, and Hurzeler might struggle to convince the centre-back to stay this summer.
Liverpool Make Contact Over Jan Paul van Hecke
According to Voetbal International, Liverpool are in the chase for Jan Paul van Hecke to reinforce their defence this summer.
The report claims that Brighton value van Hecke at around £50m. The Reds have also reportedly made contact with the Dutchman over a possible move.
Liverpool missed out on Marc Guehi last summer, and defensive injuries have been a major blow to the Reds’ campaign.
As a result, Arne Slot is keen on adding a centre-back at Anfield this summer, and Van Hecke is a serious option for the club.
Brighton Face Wider Jan Paul van Hecke Interest
Unfortunately for Herzeler, Liverpool aren’t the only Premier League club interested in buying the defender.
Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also reported to be interested in Van Hecke’s services. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering his experience in the English top-flight at the age of 25.
He has made 33 Premier League starts this season and has helped the club maintain eight clean sheets. Standing at 189 cm, Van Hecke has won 104 aerial duels, ranking him in the top 9.9% of centre-backs in the English top-flight.
While the defender has no publicly listed release clause, it is clear that Brighton will only let him go for a big valuation.
READ MORE: Brighton Plot €25m Raid on Bayern Munich Star Hiroki Ito as Transfer Battle Heats Up
European Football Will be Key in Retaining Van Hecke
For Brighton, the best way to strengthen their position is by qualifying for Europe next season. However, with their recent defeat to Newcastle, they can’t afford to lose the next three games.
Van Hecke’s contract expires next summer, and retaining him could mean maintaining progress for European qualification.
The club currently stands 7th, eligible for the Conference League. However, the Europa League is within reach if they return to top form for the next three games.
Finishing sixth is the most realistic outcome, which also offers a chance to play in the Champions League, depending on results elsewhere.
If Aston Villa win the Europa League and finish fifth in the Premier League, the fifth-place Champions League spot would pass down to the sixth-place team.
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