Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke has stated his desire for clarity regarding his future, with Chelsea among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his services. The 26-year-old has become a key figure for Brighton, making 131 appearances and contributing four goals from a defensive position.
Van Hecke’s contract situation has sparked transfer speculation, as he enters the final year of his deal with the Seagulls. He is currently valued at €81 million (£70m) according to The Telegraph, attracting attention from both Chelsea and Liverpool. Tottenham Hotspur have also expressed interest, having had two bids rejected by Brighton, while Brighton themselves saw an offer for Luka Vuskovic turned down by Spurs.
Speaking after starting in the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Japan at the World Cup, Van Hecke indicated he hopes to resolve his club future soon. He told Sky Sports: “Of course, things are also happening and I know that myself too, but that’s not for now, that’s more after the World Cup. I will then see where I play. I have also said very clearly that I would like to have clarity for myself before the World Cup… That clarity will probably come after the World Cup when I make that step, then it’s clear to everyone.”
Brighton CEO Paul Barber has affirmed the club’s position, stating they are not compelled to sell Van Hecke unless a suitable offer is received. Barber told talkSPORT: “Yes, we have rejected a bid from Tottenham over the last week or so, in fact, two bids. From that point of view, it has to be right for us as well as the player… We have to be in a position to make the best trades to suit our model.”
In separate news, Chelsea are set to offload Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid for a fee of €60 million (£51.8m), as reported by The Athletic. The move will see the left-back reunite with Jose Mourinho, becoming his third signing of the summer. Cucurella had previously voiced concerns about the direction of Chelsea following the dismissal of Enzo Maresca in January, expressing a preference for stability.
