Newcastle United have held provisional talks over a summer move for Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke, journalist Charlie Haffenden has revealed.
The Magpies have reportedly earmarked the 25-year-old centre-back as a potential reinforcement to Eddie Howe’s backline, as they look to bring in a fresh name to complement the likes of Sven Botman, Fabian Schar and Dan Burn.
Van Hecke is another Brighton star Newcastle are showing strong interest in, alongside forward Joao Pedro, who is believed to be their long-term target.
The Brazilian attacker is reportedly valued at £60m by the St James’ Park outfit, who now look set to open talks over Pedro’s summer arrival.
Newcastle Keen on Jan Paul van Hecke
Talks ongoing with the 25-year-old’s camp
Jan Paul van Hecke
According to Haffenden, Newcastle have initiated talks with Van Hecke’s representatives recently over his potential move to St James’ Park this summer:
Van Hecke, who joined Brighton from Dutch side NAC Breda in September 2020, has been a cornerstone of the Seagulls’ back four over the past two seasons.
The Dutch international, praised as 'the next Virgil van Dijk', made 39 appearances across all competitions last term, scoring one goal and providing one assist.
Brighton are said to value Van Hecke in excess of £27m this summer and are very reluctant to sell the defender, who was voted the club’s Player of the Season last month.
With talks still at a very early stage, there is reportedly a chance Newcastle may not progress further and could move on to other targets, with Crystal Palace ace Marc Guehi among the alternatives.
Jan Paul van Hecke's Brighton Stats (2024/25 Premier League)
Games
Goals
Assists
Goal-creating actions
Minutes played
Sign up toThe GIVEMESPORT Reportto get exclusive daily updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ben Jacobs, Dean Jones and Tom Bogert sent straight to your inbox.
Eddie Howe Related
Newcastle Eyeing Move to Sign 'Electric' Dutch International in £47m Deal
Recent reports have indicated that Newcastle United are keen on recruiting this sensational attacking talent in the summer transfer window.
Statistics courtesy ofFbrefandTransfermarkt. Correct as of 1 9 -06-25.