Napoli Keen on Brighton Star to Strengthen the Defense

Napoli have Brighton stalwart Jan Paul van Hecke in their crosshairs ahead of January, when they fully plan to meet Antonio Conte’s request to sign a new reliable defender to join Alessandro Buongiorno and Amir Rrahmani in the back.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Azzurri would have to spend at least €20M for the Dutch center-back. He’s under contract until 2027, which complicates their pursuit. He was acquired by the Seagulls from NAC Breda in 2020 and has been a regular since 2022 after a pair of loan spells. The 24-year-old has collected 64 appearances, 47 of which in the Premier League, providing 3 assists. He has two caps with the Netherlands.

Napoli have earmarked Van Hecke and a few other specialists as their rearguard could be in flux in the next window behind its two centerpieces. Juan Jesus could head to the MLS if he receives a good offer and the teams find a replacement.

Rafa Marin hasn’t convinced Antonio Conte for now. He could go back to La Liga on loan. Villarreal are hot on his trail. They spent €12M to acquire him from Real Madrid with a convoluted formula. The two deputies should get a chance in Thursday’s Coppa Italia tilt versus Lazio.

Our Take on Napoli and Van Hecke

They need another dependable option but it won’t be too easy to find the right guy as, while money isn’t a problem, he’d have to be content with not being a regular for the next six months, while there’ll probably be more room next season. They can be very convincing, but a veteran is more likely.