Liverpool set to battle Newcastle United in the race to sign 25-year-old Brighton star | OneFootball

Liverpool Tracking Brighton Defender Amid Guehi Uncertainty

Focus on defensive options

Liverpool’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements continues to dominate discussion, with TeamTalk reporting that Jan Paul van Hecke has emerged as a name to watch. The Brighton defender, now into the final two years of his contract, has drawn attention from Liverpool, Tottenham and Newcastle United. His situation could come to a head by 2026, with the Seagulls already aware of the risk of losing another asset.

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“Albion have already made initial advances to keep him but know he has high ambitions and wants to start pushing himself towards Champions League football,” the report outlined.

Liverpool’s admiration stems from both potential and necessity. After missing out on Marc Guehi on deadline day, attention has shifted to viable alternatives. TeamTalk stated that “Liverpool – they have viewed him as having the potential to step up into their set-up, and now have fresh considerations to make in defence after failing to sign Marc Guehi.”

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Rising profile of Van Hecke

The 25-year-old has been gradually building his reputation at Brighton, stepping up in key moments and showing a consistency that appeals to bigger clubs. His awareness, aerial ability and growing composure in possession suggest he could slot into a top-six side.

Van Hecke, however, is not short of options. Tottenham remain interested, while Newcastle are considering defensive upgrades in the coming year. Interest is also understood to exist from continental clubs, further complicating Brighton’s chances of tying him down to a new deal.

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Contract talks and Brighton’s stance

Albion’s motivation is clear. They want him signed to a new deal before speculation spirals further. Yet as TeamTalk reported, “if he keeps the situation open into the New Year, then sources admit there is a possibility of a 2026 transfer.” Brighton’s recruitment model is already stretched, with Carlos Baleba another name attracting interest, and the fear of a double blow is growing.

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Guehi still on Liverpool radar

Liverpool have not given up on Guehi either. “It’s been reported that the Reds will return for him in January to stave off competition from other clubs,” TeamTalk added. Encouragingly, Palace are expected to drop their valuation by £10 million from the summer figure, giving Liverpool renewed confidence.

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Whether it is Guehi or Van Hecke, the message is clear. Liverpool are prioritising central defensive depth, building a pathway for both the present and future.

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The idea of Van Hecke joining feels more like a back-up plan than a decisive move, and supporters know too well how those situations can end. Brighton have made careers out of selling players for big sums, and while Van Hecke has shown promise, he is not yet at the level of a proven Champions League defender.

The mention that “Liverpool have viewed him as having the potential to step up” only raises further questions. Potential does not always translate to performance at Anfield, and the gap between Brighton and Liverpool is considerable. With Tottenham, Newcastle and others circling, it is not hard to imagine his price inflating quickly, leaving Liverpool in the same dilemma they faced with Guehi.

As for Guehi, the optimism around a January return has to be tempered. Palace have every right to stand firm, and supporters will remember other drawn-out transfer sagas that ultimately fizzled. It is encouraging to hear a possible £10 million reduction, but until a deal is done, many fans will remain doubtful.

The squad clearly needs defensive additions, yet there is a sense of hesitation in how Liverpool are approaching it. Rather than dictating the market, they appear to be reacting to it. For fans, the concern is simple, that this lack of conviction could prove costly when it matters most.