Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool’s hunt for another centre-half this summer has taken a distinctly Dutch turn, with Jan Paul van Hecke firmly in Arne Slot’s sights.
Reports out of the Netherlands, led by Voetbal International, claim the Reds have already made formal enquiries for the Brighton defender, with direct contact between the two clubs and a longer-running dialogue between Anfield and the player’s camp.
The 25-year-old is heading into the final year of his Brighton deal in 2027 and has shown no appetite to extend, leaving the Seagulls with a now-or-never decision if they want to bank a meaningful fee.
Chelsea are pushing for the Dutch international too, while Tottenham have been lurking, but Slot – who tried to sign Van Hecke at Feyenoord – is said to be personally driving the move.
Joost Blaauwhof, who was the Dutch journalist who broke the news that Liverpool had made enquires for Van Hecke, has sat down with Redmen TV to discuss the potential transfer further
When quizzed on whether the Brighton defender would be keen on the move to Anfield, Blaauwhof replied that he would be and that Liverpool would likely be a more appealing option than Chelsea:
“Of course. This player prefers to make a step inside England, so inside the Premier League. The Premier League suits him. But when Liverpool is coming for every player, they’re not saying no to Liverpool, right?”
When Chelsea’s having a story of better money, maybe then he’s considering a move to Chelsea. But he knows the Liverpool manager personally, there’s a connection between all parties, why would you say no?”
“He used to play next to Virgil van Dijk in the Dutch national team, so it will be easy to adapt… and of course playing every two weeks at Anfield, Champions League, all things, it’s what kids are dreaming of.”
A defender who prefers the Premier League, who already knows the captain, and who views Anfield as a “dream” destination is exactly the kind of profile Richard Hughes likes to do business with.
Brighton, of course, will not make it cheap, and Chelsea’s financial muscle ensures this will not be a straightforward negotiation. But with Slot personally driving the pursuit, contact established at club level, and the player himself reportedly open to the move, Liverpool look well-placed to win another centre-back battle this summer.
Van Hecke to Liverpool? | Transfer Insight 🕵️♂️@dan_clubbe spoke with @joost_blaauwhof of @VI_nl regarding Liverpool’s interest in Van Hecke
Watch the FULL VIDEO on Redmen Plus 🔴📲 pic.twitter.com/nDmAIHxJaM
— The Redmen TV (@TheRedmenTV) May 5, 2026