Liverpool ‘Interested’ in Potential Move to Sign Brighton Defender – Journalist | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Defensive Conundrum: Jan Paul van Hecke on the Radar?

Liverpool’s search for defensive reinforcements continues to intensify following the departure of Jarell Quansah. As focus remains largely on high-profile attacking targets like Alexander Isak, there’s an increasing sense of urgency among fans about the club’s defensive priorities. Amid this, Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke has emerged as a name to watch.

As reported by Rousing the Kop, Liverpool “wouldn’t be surprised” to hold a firm interest in the Dutchman. Transfer expert Graeme Bailey explained:“It wouldn’t surprise me if Liverpool were interested. We know they watch Brighton regularly, so why wouldn’t they be looking at Van Hecke?”

There’s logic to this potential move. Van Hecke, 25, has quietly become one of the most dependable young centre-backs in the Premier League, impressing with his positioning, calmness on the ball and ability to read the game. His age and profile also suggest there’s further growth to come, making him an appealing candidate.

Value, Versatility and World Cup Ambitions

However, Bailey also rightly points out the complications:“He wouldn’t be cheap, that’s the problem, he would be more likely in the bracket of a potential Konate replacement. He probably wouldn’t come to Anfield to be number three, especially thinking about his World Cup place.”

Van Hecke’s reluctance to risk game time ahead of international duty could be a decisive factor. At Brighton, he plays regularly. At Liverpool, he could find himself behind Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk, especially if Arne Slot sticks with a two-at-the-back formation.

Photo: IMAGO

With Marc Guehi also linked, as Rousing the Kop notes, there may be more ready-made options available. But Van Hecke’s experience at this level and his tactical intelligence arguably make him one of the more intriguing prospects.

Should Liverpool Push for a Deal?

Given Slot’s familiarity with Eredivisie talents and his success in building structured defences, Van Hecke could easily fit into Liverpool’s evolving identity. Though the transfer fee might prove difficult to justify without a guaranteed starting role, the club must consider whether investing in depth and future leadership at the back is a wiser route than short-term fixes.

As Rousing the Kop rightly points out,“Premier League proven, possessing potential to get better and at a good age to go to the next level, Van Hecke could be just the defender Liverpool have been looking for.”

That kind of description should not be ignored. Defensive depth, especially with Champions League football returning, is not a luxury — it’s a requirement.

Time to Act?

Van Hecke’s contract situation at Brighton remains unresolved, and while a new deal could be signed, the window of opportunity is still ajar. If Liverpool are serious about maintaining their domestic dominance under Arne Slot, moves like these may need to come sooner rather than later.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool supporters, we know the weight a solid defensive structure brings to any title campaign.

Van Hecke feels like the type of player we often admire from afar. Quiet, reliable and technically sharp. He’s rarely the headline-maker, but at 25, he’s entering the phase where centre-backs usually begin to peak. There’s a definite sense that if we wait too long, we’ll see him thrive somewhere else — much like how we once let the likes of Michael Keane and Ben Mee pass us by.

Arne Slot’s knowledge of Dutch talent adds another layer. If he gives the green light, that should carry serious weight with the recruitment team. We can’t afford another season where one injury to Konaté sends the entire back line into disarray.

Financially, it might not be the flashiest move, but sometimes smart business beats big business. With Champions League football returning and four competitions on the cards, Van Hecke would almost certainly see more minutes than he might expect. If we can convince him of that role and secure him at the right price, this could be a classic Liverpool buy — sensible, under the radar, and incredibly effective.