“Liverpool could target Brighton ace as alternative ‘sensational’ option suggested for Reds”
Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke if he becomes available.
The Reds invested over £400m in the summer transfer window, with standout signings including Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. Defensively, they brought in Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, while promising Italian centre-back Giovanni Leoni joined from Parma. However, Leoni suffered a serious injury early in the season, leaving Joe Gomez as the primary backup to Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool also failed to secure Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace on deadline day after the Eagles pulled out of the deal during the England international’s medical. Now, the club is reportedly eyeing another centre-back for the January window, with Brighton’s Van Hecke emerging as a target. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, who remains well-connected in the Premier League, confirmed that both Liverpool and Tottenham are tracking Van Hecke, and the Reds “may well make a move.”
Brown told Football Insider:
“Liverpool and Tottenham have both been watching Van Hecke. Initially, I thought he was a solid defender but nothing extraordinary, but over the past season or two he has really developed. He’s consistently shown at Brighton that he’s more than just an average defender, which has caught the attention of these clubs. Both Liverpool and Tottenham are attractive options for him, and I’m sure he’ll take notice if a move comes.”
He added:
“Liverpool are keeping tabs on him because of their current defensive situation, and if he becomes available, they may act. Tottenham are also looking for reinforcements, and Van Hecke has been on their radar for some time. If Brighton continue to struggle, the opportunity could arise.”
In addition to Guehi, former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock believes the Reds should also consider signing Crystal Palace teammate Maxence Lacroix. Speaking to Aceodds, Warnock said:
“Marc Guehi would be a strong replacement. He brings leadership and international experience, consistently performing well for England. While not the tallest, he compensates with physicality and excellent game reading.
“I also like Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace; he’s an exceptional player with remarkable pace and physicality, capable of going man-to-man with Van Dijk. Either signing—Guehi or Lacroix—would be an excellent addition to Liverpool’s defense.”