When Jan Paul van Hecke arrived at Brighton from NAC Breda in 2020 for less than £2m [$2.7m], he was seen as a project rather than a certain starter.
Five years later he has become one of the most consistent figures in their back line, playing 34 Premier League games last season and winning more aerial duels than any other Brighton defender.
The Dutch star is now approaching the final two years of his contract and the situation has drawn the attention of Liverpool, Tottenham and Newcastle United, who could fight for his signature in 2026, according to TEAMtalk.
Brighton have already opened discussions on a new deal because they know his development has created interest at the highest level.
The 25 year-old is entering his prime, which makes this contract window decisive for both the player and the club.
Liverpool identified him while assessing alternatives after missing out on Marc Guehi at the end of the summer window.
📲Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Tottenham kept him on their radar after deciding not to bring in an extra defender despite internal plans to do so.
Newcastle are weighing him as part of long term planning even though they recently signed Malick Thiaw from AC Milan for around £35m [$47m].
Why Newcastle United would want to sign Brighton defender?
Eddie Howe has been open about his desire to strengthen defensively and while the Magpies coach added Thiaw this year there are some concerns which can creep up in near future.
The Magpies have an aging defense with Fabian Schar already 33 and contracted until 2026 and Dan Burn is also 33 and has signed a deal that runs through 2027.
Sven Botman missed long stretches with knee problems that left Newcastle exposed in crucial matches while Malick Thiaw adds pace and strength but the schedule requires another defender.
Van Hecke offers Premier League experience at an age where improvement can still be expected.
According to the reports, Brighton want to finish talks before the end of the year, but if negotiations remain open into 2025 then the possibility of a 2026 transfer will rise sharply.
Newcastle United news and related links
- Alexander Isak to Liverpool: Latest news as striker completes British record £125 million transfer on deadline day
- Most expensive transfers in soccer history: All-time list of biggest football deals with Isak joining Neymar, Mbappe
- Newcastle finally agree £55m deal for Yoane Wissa after Isak exit