Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have received a massive boost in their pursuit of Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke.

According to Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider, Jan Paul van Hecke could push for a move away from Brighton if Newcastle United formalise their interest. The Magpies are keen on adding more quality at the back, and the Dutch centre-back is quite high on their wishlist.

Van Hecke joined Brighton back in 2020. After multiple loan spells away from the club, he eventually managed to establish himself as a key figure in the team and has only gone from strength to strength since.

His impressive performances have helped him break into the Dutch national team, and he is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League. The 25-year-old is on the wishlist of multiple top clubs, and with only two years left on his deal, a potential departure could be on the cards.

Brighton certainly won’t want to lose out on one of their best players, and they will try their best to extend his stay at the club. However, he doesn’t seem too keen on signing a new deal. If the opportunity to play for a Champions League club arrives, Van Hecke could push for an exit in 2026.

O’Rourke on Van Hecke’s future

While talking about the Dutch international’s future, O’Rourke said: “He’s a top player, Jan Paul van Hecke”,

“For me, he’s one of the best centre-backs in the league – Brighton will be very keen to keep hold of him.

“Maybe, the player himself – if a Champions League club came calling for him – maybe he might be interested in that move away, just to progress his career and play at the highest level possible.

“He’s only got two years on his contract left until 2027, so Brighton won’t want to see him run that down and potentially leave on a free transfer.”

Newcastle could make a move for Van Hecke

Newcastle United are keen on adding more quality to their backline. With Dan Burn and Fabian Schar not getting any younger, they are looking to build a backline for the long run. While Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi was a top priority for them, they have decided against pushing for him as he doesn’t seem too keen on joining them.

Van Hecke is another name that is quite high on their wishlist, and they could certainly make a move for him in the near future. The 25-year-old has a strong physical presence, and he is great in the air and can certainly play out from the back. He seems to have everything that Eddie Howe needs in a centre-back.

While Newcastle are keen on his signature, they will have to ensure they secure Champions League football for next season to try to lure him to the club next summer. Meanwhile, Brighton might have to consider parting ways with him if they fail to extend his stay before the end of this season.