Still in the market for a centre-back, Newcastle United are already reportedly jostling for position in a race against Liverpool to sign a Premier League rival.
Newcastle set to target defensive additions in January
The summer transfer window may be closed, but that hasn't stopped Newcastle from turning their focus towards 2026. The Magpies are clearly aiming to be far more prepared than this summer's window, which saw them scrambling for options right up until the death after missing out on several targets to Premier League rivals.
Giovanni Leoni was one of those targets and it's no surprise that it was Liverpool at the centre of Newcastle's frustration. The Magpies even outbid the Reds in pursuit of the Italian defender, but he had his heart set on a summer switch to Anfield in a familiar story for several sides in recent months.
"We rejected a higher offer from Newcastle for Leoni. But plans have changed with Liverpool. This because the offer was very attractive and because Giovanni made it clear he was very happy to join LFC." (Parma CEO Federico Cherubini)
Eddie Howe did at least welcome Malick Thiaw in the summer window, but it could easily be argued that Newcastle still needed added options at the heart of their backline.
Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are now 33 years old, whilst Sven Botman's injury history is a concern in its own right. The fact is, aside from Thiaw, Newcastle simply do not have a list of centre-back options that will be at the peak of their powers for years to come.
Now that their striker problem has been solved by Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, Newcastle are seemingly ready to turn towards their backline. Reports are even suggesting that they could finally enjoy some revenge on Liverpool when 2026 arrives.
Newcastle targeting Van Hecke hijack
According to TeamTalk, Newcastle are now targeting a move to sign Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2026. Battling against Liverpool, who are scouting the Dutchman as an alternative to Marc Guehi, the Magpies will be hoping to finally get one over on the Premier League champions.
Now would also be the perfect time to do it. Van Hecke is on the rise and one that Newcastle should do everything to sign. At 25 years old, he is excellent in possession and more than holds his own off the ball. With two years left on his current Brighton contract, it's no surprise that a growing list of clubs are interested.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler will be more away than most of just how talented Van Hecke is. He told reporters in May: “I think it's very important that we recognise he's a very young player.
“He's 23 and he plays an unbelievable season. He shows great character. I like his character because he's very straight. He says his opinion, he always has good intentions.
Jan Paul van Hecke-1
“Of course, in some ways he needs to develop, but we always give him very honest feedback. And I think he has all the character sides to be one day captain, but that's the long-term future at the moment."