Brighton have named their price for Jan Paul van Hecke as the Dutch defender becomes the latest target of a Premier League bidding war, with Chelsea involved.
Jan Paul van Hecke has become the glue in Brighton’s defence during the 2025/26 campaign. His ability to progress play is an attractive proposition for Liam Rosenior and Chelsea, highlighted by over 1,780 successful passes and 2,671 minutes played.
Beyond his distribution, Van Hecke has proven surprisingly potent in the opposition box, contributing three goals and two assists, including a standout performance in a recent 2–1 victory over Liverpool.
More importantly, he has been instrumental in securing nine clean sheets for Brighton this season, helping steady the ship through a high-transition campaign.
With his ability to defend in large spaces and a growing reputation as a vocal leader, it’s no surprise that Van Hecke’s performances are attracting the attention of Chelsea.
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Brighton demands £50 million for Van Hecke
According to TalkSPORT, if he were to be sold, the Seagulls would now expect to recoup at least £50m, given he has a contract until the end of next season.
Brighton signed Van Hecke from Dutch club NAC Breda for a bargain £2m six years ago.
With Chelsea targeting mature players who are proven in the Premier League, Van Hecke appears to be the perfect fit for Liam Rosenior’s side.
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Van Hecke compliments Trevoh Chalobah and Levi Colwill
Jan Paul van Hecke serves as the glue that Chelsea’s backline currently lacks, offering a profile that would fundamentally stabilise the partnership between Levi Colwill and Trevoh Chalobah.
Against the more aggressive and versatile Trevoh Chalobah, Van Hecke acts as a calming anchor. Chalobah’s high-risk, high-reward defending is balanced by the Brighton defender’s reading of the game, evidenced by his 254 defensive contributions and 163 duels won this season.
It could help fix Chelsea’s defensive issues, but the only issue is another £50 million outlay.
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