Liverpool and spurs battle for £44m target | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Brighton’s Van Hecke as Defensive Concerns Grow

Liverpool’s summer transfer business was headline-grabbing, capped by Alexander Isak’s late switch from Newcastle United. The arrival of Jeremie Frimpong, Giovanni Leoni and Kerkez added fresh legs, but questions remain in central defence. With Ibrahima Konate in the final year of his contract and Virgil van Dijk deep into the latter stages of his career, the need for another option at the back is clear.

Brighton Defender on Liverpool’s Radar

Football Talk, crediting GiveMeSport, reported that Brighton & Hove Albion’s Jan Paul van Hecke has emerged as a potential Liverpool target. He is, however, seen as a secondary option to Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, who is firmly established as the Reds’ top defensive priority for 2026.

The report noted, “In addition to the Premier League leaders, Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on signing the Dutchman, who has been slapped with a £44 million price tag by the Seagulls, the source has further added.”

Rising Reputation of Van Hecke

At 25, Van Hecke has built a reputation as a strong and reliable centre-back. “The 25-year-old has been excellent in the middle of Brighton’s defence, and has been hailed for his superb reading of the game, ability to win ground duels and being very effective aerially on both ends of the pitch.”

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He is also technically sound, with good passing accuracy and the ability to step forward with the ball. “Van Hecke also has a good passing accuracy and can distribute balls well from the back, so he would make a solid replacement for Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool having also shared the dressing room with him for the Netherlands national side.”

Competition From Tottenham and Madrid Links

Tottenham’s interest may not be as fierce, with Ange Postecoglou already boasting Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin and Luka Vuskovic. The report added, “It remains to be seen how much of a priority Van Hecke is for them.”

Liverpool’s pursuit will likely hinge on the future of Konate, with Real Madrid strongly linked with the French defender. “And while Marc Guehi remains the priority for Liverpool, they might consider signing the Brighton mainstay if Ibrahima Konate leaves the club next season considering Real Madrid’s strong interest in him.”

Brighton have a history of turning talent into profit, and Van Hecke looks increasingly like their next high-value departure.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will read this with a mixture of excitement and concern. Excitement because Van Hecke represents the type of defender who could step into the shoes of Virgil van Dijk, someone already familiar with his style from their time together with the Netherlands. Concern because the club’s defensive situation is precarious. Konate’s contract uncertainty, coupled with strong interest from Real Madrid, could leave Arne Slot dangerously short at centre-back just as the Reds look to build on a title-winning season.

Brighton’s £44 million valuation is not unreasonable given Premier League market inflation, and the 25-year-old’s performances justify serious consideration. Yet fans may question whether Liverpool should push harder for Guehi, who is viewed as the number one target. If Guehi proves unattainable, Van Hecke would still offer composure, aerial dominance and tactical discipline, qualities Liverpool cannot afford to overlook.

Tottenham’s interest feels more like a smokescreen given their depth, but it keeps the pressure on Liverpool to move decisively. Supporters will want FSG to act early rather than risk losing another defensive option. For a fanbase that has seen too many windows drift without decisive squad-building, the fear is that hesitation could cost dearly.