Brigthton Star Defender Linked With Top Premier League Club

It is going to be a busy summer transfer window for Brighton. After losing ground on the teams above them in the race for European football, many of their players will be linked away from the Seagulls. One of these players is Brighton star defender Jan Paul van Hecke. He has caught the eye of the likes of Newcastle United and Bayer Leverkusen.

Newcastle In The Race For Brighton Defender Jan Paul Van Hecke

Which Teams Hold Interest?

TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey reported that Newcastle were one of the several clubs that are keeping close tabs on Van Hecke. The Magpies are one of many top English teams who are keeping an eye on him. With Newcastle looking good for a Champions League place, Eddie Howe is looking to bolster his options at the back. 

Outside of England, Leverkusen have also held an interest in the Dutch defender. Jonathan Tah will leave the German outfit at the end of the season.  With European football unlikely to come, Van Hecke may be assessing his options. As a result, a move away from Sussex to one of these top teams could be the right way to go for the 24-year-old.

What Will Van Hecke Bring?

The centre-back has been a key part of Brighton’s team this season. He has played 30 league games this term, with his availability coming in key due to Brighton’s defensive injuries. He has impressed at the highest level, with the likes of Pep Guardiola having praised him. 

His composure and calmness on the ball help Brighton keep the ball and start attacks. Defensively, he is very hard to get by and normally comes out on top in ground and aerial duels.

Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi had high praise for the star defender, as he said: “I think you are one of the best central defenders in the Premier League at the moment.”Brighton has a lot of talented young players. Not all of these players are ready/have the experience to start for the first team, with it being very competitive.