Liverpool are reportedly in the race for a mammoth Premier League transfer. They've taken the first step.
Liverpool may nor may not replace Ibrahima Konate this summer. The Reds will lose the defender on a free transfer to Real Madrid but it appears they're picky when it comes to centre-backs.
After all, the club do have several other areas to shop for over the transfer window. They've also got four centre-backs in Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni - even if the latter battles injury issues.
There's little doubt that Liverpool would sign the ideal centre-back if he becomes available, though. And there's a chance he has.
Jan Paul van Hecke is up for grabs. Or at least, clubs seem to think he is, prompting Tottenham Hotspur into two bids for the Brighton star. Both bids were promptly rejected but there's a sense that the right money could get the defender.
Voetbal International reports that Liverpool are in the fight, too. They've supposedly made initial contact over a deal and could push forward if the price were right.
That's unclear, though. It's thought that Van Hecke is pretty set on a move to Spurs, as well, which makes it extra difficult for Liverpool to pull this one off.
One to watch this summer, however.
Brighton & Hove Albion Campaign and Stats
As of 8 June 2026, Jan Paul van Hecke remains a Brighton & Hove Albion player, though he is currently at the centre of intense transfer speculation. The 25-year-old Dutch defender enjoyed a standout 2025/26 campaign, making 36 Premier League appearances, scoring three goals, and providing three assists. His commanding performances at the heart of the Seagulls' defence earned him a reputation as one of the league's premier ball-playing centre-backs, further cementing his place in the Netherlands national squad.
Tottenham Hotspur Transfer Pursuit
The defender’s future is currently subject to a high-stakes transfer battle. Tottenham Hotspur, seeking to rebuild following a difficult 2025/26 season, have made Van Hecke a primary target. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has officially confirmed that the club has rejected two separate bids from Spurs, maintaining that the Seagulls are firm on their valuation, widely reported to be in the region of £50 million. With only 12 months remaining on his contract, Brighton face a critical decision this summer to either secure a lucrative transfer fee or risk losing him for free in 2027.
