Liverpool may be eyeing Brighton & Hove Albion’s talented centre-back, Jan Paul van Hecke, as they look to bolster their defensive ranks come January, reports suggest. The Reds, who splashed out over £400 million in the summer window on household names like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, are now keen to address their backline vulnerabilities.
Their summer acquisitions included promising defensive talents Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, with Giovanni Leoni of Parma joining the ranks. However, an unfortunate early-season injury to Leoni has left Liverpool thin on defensive options beyond stalwarts Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk. A missed opportunity to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace on deadline day has further exacerbated their need for reinforcements.
Rumours are now swirling that Liverpool have identified Van Hecke as a potential target. Former Manchester United chief scout, Mick Brown, has affirmed that both Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have kept tabs on the Dutch defender. “Liverpool and Tottenham have been watching Van Hecke,” Brown revealed to Football Insider. “His recent performances for Brighton have highlighted his progress, making him an appealing prospect for top-tier clubs.”
Meanwhile, Stephen Warnock, former Liverpool defender, has recommended an alternative option in Palace’s Maxence Lacroix. Warnock believes that either Guehi or Lacroix would be exceptional additions to Liverpool’s defensive unit. Speaking to Aceodds, Warnock remarked, “Marc Guehi brings leadership and international experience. But Maxence Lacroix also stands out with his immense pace and physicality, capable of forming a formidable pairing with van Dijk.”
As Liverpool considers their options, the January transfer window promises to be an intriguing period for the club. Will Van Hecke or perhaps one of Crystal Palace’s stars bolster their ranks? Only time will tell.