Manchester United’s 2025 summer transfer window success showed that Premier League proven is the way to go, and it looks like this summer will follow similar lines.
This summer, Manchester United are gearing up for a huge summer with Champions League money to spend and plenty of work to do.
Premier League proven is the trend for midfield additions, at least for the bigger deals rumoured, with alternatives also considered.
United could raid Bournemouth, with the south coast side having multiple players considered ready for a step up. But Brighton are also a potential shopping destination.
Carlos Baleba is a midfield target for Ineos, and his centre-back teammate Jan Paul van Hecke could be another potential option.
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Jan Paul Van Hecke set to be available this summer
Baleba had a strong outing against Chelsea in the 3-0 Brighton win this week, putting himself back in contention for a big move.
But also performing to a very high level was Van Hecke, as the defender locked down Chelsea’s admittedly toothless attack.
This follows a report from Voetbal International in the Netherlands, which claimed that Brighton has been trying to lock him down to a new contract, but have had no luck so far.
The defender has been offered massively improved deals, but Van Hecke dreams of playing for a top team in England, with his plans for the next step now set.
This makes it sound like he will leave Brighton, and with his contract expiring in 2027, the Seagulls will have to cash in on Van Hecke this summer.
United should be right at the front of the queue if so.
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Manchester United should test Brighton’s resolve over Van Hecke
Van Hecke is sure to have plenty of suitors, with Liverpool reportedly one interested party. But with Champions League football almost in the bag, United can compete and will need defensive reinforcements.
The Dutch international is in his prime years right now, turning 26 in June, and would likely cost less than £35m at the very most, given his contract situation, which is a bargain for a player with such experience and talent.
Van Hecke is right-footed, and so his arrival would probably signal that United’s faith in Matthijs de Ligt is over, with the former Bayern Munich defender injured since December with a mysterious back injury.
Having Van Hecke to rotate with Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro would be perfect depth for a title-challenging side to compete on multiple fronts.
The Brighton defender has been proving his quality lately with an excellent performance against Chelsea, the latest showcase.
This is a move United should be looking to do.
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