Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a summer swoop for Brighton & Hove Albion star Jan Paul van Hecke.
Liverpool are keeping a close eye on Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke as they weigh up a summer move to strengthen their backline. Amid uncertainty surrounding Virgil van Dijk’s future at Anfield, the Reds are actively scouting potential replacements, and van Hecke has emerged as a serious option.
Virgil van Dijk has yet to commit to a contract extension, and with his £220,000-per-week deal set to expire at the end of June, Liverpool could face a significant defensive reshuffle. The club’s recruitment team is taking a data-driven approach to their scouting, and van Hecke’s performances in the Premier League have impressed the Anfield hierarchy.
Jan Paul van Hecke: A rising talent
The Dutch centre-back has been a key figure for Brighton & Hove Albion this season, catching the eye for his composure, passing ability, and defensive awareness. At 24, he has already played alongside van Dijk for the Netherlands, gaining valuable experience at the highest level alongside the best in the business.
According to Give Me Sport, Liverpool’s scouting team has been particularly impressed with van Hecke’s consistency and his ability to play progressive passes from the back, qualities that align with Arne Slot’s tactical vision. With two years remaining on his £30,000-a-week contract, Brighton may be open to negotiations, but only if the price is right.
However, Liverpool are not the only club interested. Napoli are also monitoring van Hecke’s situation, with manager Antonio Conte reportedly considering a move as he looks to reshape his defense ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Will Liverpool Make Their Move?
While van Hecke is a strong candidate, Liverpool are assessing multiple defensive options before making a final decision. The Reds have also been linked with Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, another Premier League talent who could provide long-term stability in defense.
Brighton are reluctant to sell, given van Hecke’s development into a key player, but a substantial offer from Liverpool could change the equation. With Slot eager to reinforce his defensive unit, the Dutchman remains firmly on the club’s radar.
Van Hecke would be a solid addition to Liverpool’s backline, offering a mix of defensive resilience and ball-playing ability. However, the real question is whether he is ready to step into the shoes of someone like van Dijk, should the Liverpool captain leave.
While van Hecke has shown promise, he is yet to prove himself at an elite level for a prolonged period. If Liverpool are looking for a long-term defensive leader, they may need to target a more established name. That said, as a rotational option who could grow into a key player, the 24-year-old Dutchman presents an intriguing and potentially cost-effective solution for the Reds.