Liverpool Are Among The Clubs Hoping To Land This Brighton Defender: Good Choice For Slot? | OneFootball

In a recent report, transfer insider Dean Jones revealed that Liverpool are among the clubs hoping to land Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke. It has been stated that the Reds would have to rival Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United in the race to land the Dutch centre-back next year.

Van Hecke’s Impressive Form In The Premier League

Van Hecke enjoyed a decent run of form at Brighton in the previous campaign when he put in a string of impressive displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The Dutch talent played in 39 matches for the Seagulls last season, scoring one goal and securing one assist in multiple competitions.

The 25-year-old was a rock at the back for Brighton as he made 45 tackles, 37 blocks, 24 interceptions and 142 clearances in the Premier League. He was even excellent with his ball distribution after completing 88.2% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the Amex Stadium will run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, the Reds could potentially land him on a cut-price deal at the end of this campaign.

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 02: Jan Paul Van Hecke of Brighton & Hove Albion looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Southampton and Brighton & Hove Albion at St Mary’s Stadium on August 02, 2025 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Is Van Hecke A Good Choice For Liverpool Boss Arne Slot?

Van Hecke is a solid tackler of the ball and can sense the danger well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and can even play his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.89m, Van Hecke can use his strong frame to win his fair share of aerial duels. He is already quite familiar with the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Liverpool.

Van Hecke would no doubt enhance the quality of Arne Slot’s backline. He is good enough to serve as an ideal replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who has got less than a year remaining in his Liverpool contract. Furthermore, the Dutch sensation might also help the Merseyside club compete across all competitions over the next few years.

At 25, Van Hecke has his peak years ahead of him, which makes him a great choice for the Reds to consider in January or at the end of this campaign.