Liverpool make contact with Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke
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The Reds continue to explore the possibility of further strengthening their defensive department. Image Credits: Imago ImagesWith all the media attention focused on Liverpool’s backline, the Reds will feel that they could be in a worse position going into next season.They now have two of arguably the most talented up and coming centre-backs in Europe with Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni.Mix that in with the experience of Virgil van Dijk and his mentoring could set up the two youngsters to lead Liverpool in the future.Add Ibrahima Konate into the mix, a player who appears to be veering towards finally agreeing to extend his stay on Merseyside and that is a very strong defensive department.However, Liverpool continue to explore their options in the event that Ibrahima Konate does move on this summer.According to Dutch media outlet Voetbal International, Liverpool have contacted Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke over a potential move this summer.The report states: “Sources both at Anfield and close to Van Hecke confirm that there is contact between both parties.”“It is clear that manager Arne Slot is a big fan of Van Hecke.
As manager of Feyenoord, he already wanted to bring the Dutch national team player to De Kuip, and now the same applies to Anfield.”Voetbal International also reveal that Liverpool will continue to explore a deal for van Hecke even if Ibrahima Konate doesn’t extend his deal with Liverpool.That is vital as this season has shown what can happen if a club fail to fully strengthen their backline.Last summer, Liverpool signed Giovanni Leoni and were on the cusp of brining Marc Guehi to Anfield but that fell through on deadline day.But in a tragic turn of events Giovanni Leoni went on to rupture his ACL on his Reds debut, sidelining him for the rest of the season.Joe Gomez can rarely be relied on and that has led the club to heavily relying on Virgil van Dik and Ibrahima Konate for most of the season.When one doesn’t feature, Arne Slot has had to turn to midfielders and full backs to cover their absences.That is a situation that he is clearly keen to avoid repeating itself next season, and Jan Paul van Hecke is a player they are showing real interest in signing this summer.If Liverpool were to pursue a deal for him this summer, they will face competition from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur for his signature. Jan Paul van Hecke