According to Football Insider, Newcastle United is reportedly stepping up efforts from Brighton & Hove Albion to sign Jan Paul Van Hecke.
Magpies see him as an important target as they are trying to strengthen their defense after cooling their interest in Crystal Palace’s Mark Gaehi.
Reports say the defender himself will be interested in Eddie Howe’s move to Newcastle United.
The Dutch are trying to join the club with the ambition to play Champions League football.
Magpies can offer it to him as they are currently part of the elite European competition.
Brighton’s defender is open to Newcastle United’s move
According to sources, Van Hecke may find this aspect appealing, especially as his Brighton deal will enter the final two years.
At just 25 years old, Van Hecke has grown into a mainstay in the Brighton backline, celebrating his calm and consistency.
His performance not only improved Brighton’s defensive stability, but also touched on notifications from top flight clubs seeking an upgrade to the central defense.
His contract at Amex Stadium runs until 2027, making it increasingly speculation that Brighton will attempt to negotiate a new deal. However, the value of the defender has risen sharply, allowing him to move if the top club is called.
Jan Paul Van Hecke could fit the Magpie
Under manager Howe, Newcastle has identified the centre-back position as one area that needs to be strengthened, especially given the recent investment in recent attacks and midfield investments.
Brighton is reluctant to let go of the defender who has become the centre of his defensive structure unless he feels properly compensated. With Van Hecke’s increasing value, their asking price may reflect not only his abilities, but his potential.
Current options for Newcastle in the centre-back position are Sven Botman, Malick Thiaw, Fabian Schär and Dan Burn. The arrival of players like Van Hecke adds more depth and quality.
The Magpies could potentially sign Dutchman in the face of competition with Liverpool.
Newcastle United signature suffers injury setback after a big blow to Eddie Howe