Liverpool are badly in need of a new central defender this summer after seeing Jarell Quansah leave the club.

The Reds have been focusing heavily on attacking areas over recent weeks as they attempt to extract Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

However, while the potential of another British record transfer signing is exciting Liverpool fans, they are also growing worried at the state of the back line.

Latest reports suggest that Liverpool have strong interest in Giovanni Leoni of Parma, but with Inter Milan also involved, a move is far from certain.

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Meanwhile, a more experienced signing such as Marc Guehi has been mooted, with the Crystal Palace defender seen as a more ready-made fit.

But Guehi is not the only Premier League defender who could slot straight into the Liverpool squad.

After rumours that Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke may not sign a new contract and could be sold, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has exclusively told Rousing The Kop the chances of Van Hecke arriving at Anfield.

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Van Hecke has developed into one of the best young centre-backs in the Premier League over the past two seasons.

With Liverpool needing a new defender, the Dutchman could be one worth keeping an eye on.

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According to Bailey, though, while Van Hecke is very likely to be on Liverpool’s radar, there are several reasons he may ultimately not end up with the Reds.

“I think he’s going to get a new deal, but it’s an interesting one,” says the journalist.

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“It wouldn’t surprise me if Liverpool were interested.

We know they watch Brighton regularly, so why wouldn’t they be looking at Van Hecke?

“He wouldn’t be cheap, that’s the problem, he would be more likely in the bracket of a potential Konate replacement.

He probably wouldn’t come to Anfield to be number three, especially thinking about his World Cup place.”

While there are clear issues with a potential deal for Van Hecke, there is reason to believe he is on the radar for the Reds.

As Bailey points out, the money would be big, and there is no guarantee that the 25-year-old would be keen to come in as third fiddle.

But if Van Hecke is seriously considering his options at Brighton, then Liverpool have to put themselves in the mix.

Premier League proven, possessing potential to get better and at a good age to go to the next level, Van Hecke could be just the defender Liverpool have been looking for.
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