According to TBR, Jan Paul van Hecke has emerged on Newcastle Untied’s shortlist for defenders, with the Brighton man considered a good option. Eddie Howe wants a new centre-back in the summer, with the Netherlands international seen as an achievable target as he enters the final two years of his deal.
Brighton could anticipate another big summer where they could see some of their top talents leave for a considerable fee. This season has shown the team has many top players in the squad despite consistently losing their best performers over the last many transfer windows.
One of them is defender Jan Paul van Hecke, who has become a key member of Fabian Hurzeler’s side over the last 18 months or so. The Netherlands international is also a mainstay in the national side, as he could be the subject of interest from top clubs once the season ends.
Liverpool already have an interest in Van Hecke, with Newcastle United becoming the latest to add him to their shortlist. Eddie Howe will be looking to add a new centre-back in the summer, with Van Hecke considered among a few notable options.
The defender’s profile might end up suiting the Magpies, although any move will depend on the price Brighton might demand. The Seagulls are known to sell their players for significant amounts, and that might be the case for the in-demand 24-year-old defender.
Van Hecke might be a solid choice for the Magpies as the 24-year-old defender is vastly experienced in the Premier League and at the right age of his development. Yet, Newcastle United are looking at multiple options in the market including AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw as a potential target.
The report states that Newcastle United will only accelerate a move for a new centre-back after knowing the fate of Lloyd Kelly. The defender is currently on loan at Juventus and the Italian club will have to make the move permanent if they finish within a European place, as they currently sit fifth in Serie A, with only the top six sides eligible for Continental football in Italy.
