Liverpool are eyeing a “new Van Dijk” as a 40 million euros alternative emerges. Liverpool have had their ongoing issue with their backline for a long time now. After a strong start, Arne Slot’s team went into a series of defeats in all competitions. Although it didn’t happen solely because of their backline, the coach feels like there is a need for a stronger and younger personality. The Dutch coach and their management have a player in their mind as they are actively working for a contract. It would be interesting to see how their plans work out.
In a recent interview, Arne Slot said that their main problems lie in the Reds’ backline. Both Van Dijk and Konate are out of form and are struggling to keep a clean sheet. Konate is having a very bad season, as he cannot find calmness on the pitch. In recent games, he has lost the ball more times than any other Liverpool defender. On the other hand, due to his partner’s poor performances, the Liverpool captain has failed to gather momentum. Arne Slot has decided to look for a defender in the upcoming transfer window. Brighton and Hove’s Van Hecke has caught the eye of Liverpool’s management. Hecke has been a key player for the English side and has contributed to their recent success in the Premier League. Van Hecke’s development has caught not only the eye of Arne Slot but also his fellow countryman Enzo Maresca. Chelsea are also struggling in both the Premier League and the Champions League. They have failed to maintain momentum and have lost several matches so far in December.
🚨 Liverpool and Tottenham have both been tracking Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke, with scouts watching closely ahead of a possible move.
The defender has rejected a new contract and is now ready to explore his options, putting several clubs on alert as the situation… pic.twitter.com/enttQkJFfM
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 31, 2025
Why the “new Van Dijk” perfectly fits in Slot’s system
Van Hecke would probably be the dream signing for the Dutch manager Arne Slot. The Dutch international’s playing style perfectly fits the defending Premier League champions Liverpool’s system. Van Hecke’s sense of possession and calmness have made him a strong choice for the Premier League team. Brighton signed Van Hecke from NAC Breda in 2020, and after long loan spells, he has become a fixed feature of the Seagulls’ Premier League make-up, having featured 88 times in the top flight, scoring four goals and supplying two assists. To be sure, he still has improvements to make, but data-driven site FBref says that Van Hecke shares a tactical likeness with Guehi, ranking among the top 3% of positional peers in the division for progressive passes, the top 1% for progressive carries, and the top 19% for ball recoveries per 90. Van Dijk is 34 years old, and Liverpool needs to sign a long-term replacement sooner rather than later. Van Hecke, with his wealth of Premier League experience and potential to make further gains in the coming years, could be the perfect addition, first learning the fruits of Van Dijk’s craft before taking his place down the line.
🚨Liverpool are interested in signing Brighton player Jan Paul van Hecke who has been impressive this season.
The player is expected to seek a move to the Anfield or Tottenham (who are also interested in his signature) so as to have the opportunity to play in the Champions… pic.twitter.com/8yEO3JB9tA
— Sport Trends247 (@SportTrends247) December 31, 2025
Fan’s reaction
The Liverpool fans have mixed emotions with the possible transfer rumors. Some fans believe that Van Dijk still has one or two seasons in him. On the other hand, some fans think this might be the time for a replacement. After all, Van Hecke is a terrific defender too, with SofaScore recording that he has won a whopping 67% of his ground duels in the Premier League this season.
Author’s Insight
From the author’s point of view, Arne Slot might have made the right decision to go after a young centre back. With the ongoing struggles, it’s the right time to bring a change to the club.
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