Liverpool ‘plot move to sign Brighton star’ amid contract dispute
Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the situation of Jan Paul van Hecke at Brighton having been impressed with his recent performances.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that both Liverpool and Tottenham have been watching the 25-year-old.
Brighton lost 2-1 to Arsenal last time out, and have been in a difficult run of form of late, dropping to 13th place in the Premier League table.
As a result, there is a growing feeling that a number of their key players could be tempted to move on, and top clubs are continuing to keep tabs.
Van Hecke has long been linked with leaving Brighton, as Newcastle were interested in the summer, and Liverpool are now among those keeping tabs on the situation.
Liverpool and Tottenham keeping tabs on Jan Paul van Hecke
Brown told Football Insider on 14 December that Tottenham could accelerate their move to sign Van Hecke in 2026, having held long-standing interest.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted the defender’s improvements over the last two years have placed him on Liverpool’s radar too.
“Liverpool and Tottenham have both been watching Van Hecke,” he told Football Insider.
“I used to think he was a solid defender but not much more than that, but to be fair to him, over the last season or two he has really improved his game.
“He’s showing every week for Brighton that he is better than just an ordinary defender, and that’s what’s highlighted his talent to these other clubs.
“Those are two very attractive options for him and something I’m sure he will take notice of if they are going to make a move for him.
“Liverpool have been keeping an eye on him because of their situation, and if he becomes available for whatever reason, they may well make a move.
“Tottenham also want reinforcements and he’s somebody who has been on their radar for a while.
“If Brighton keep struggling like they have been recently, then that opportunity might come up.”
Van Hecke and Brighton in ongoing contract dispute
Speculation surrounding the future of Van Hecke comes amid ongoing uncertainty around his contract situation, with his current deal set to expire in 2027.
Brighton have been keen to get him tied down to extended terms in an attempt to drive up his asking price and ward off interest from his long-term suitors.
However, Football Insider revealed in September that Van Hecke has turned down Brighton’s advances and is planning to assess his options in the upcoming windows.
Should a formal offer or serious interest emerge from a Champions League club, the centre-back is keen to explore the move and the possibility of leaving Brighton.
Sources have told Football Insider that Van Hecke wants to play Champions League football and is now ready to make the step up.
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