Newcastle set to sign “outstanding” £60m CB, he’d be a big upgrade on Dan Burn
Newcastle United Eye Key Defensive Reinforcements Ahead of 2025/26 Season
As preparations begin for the upcoming 2025/26 campaign, Newcastle United are expected to be active in the transfer market once again this summer. With Champions League football secured for another season, the Magpies are determined to build a squad capable of not only competing among Europe’s elite but also consistently challenging for a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Manager Eddie Howe and the club’s recruitment team are keen to strengthen several key areas of the squad, and central defence appears to be high on their priority list. Despite already boasting experienced players like Fabian Schär and Dan Burn, there is a growing sense that Newcastle must add quality and depth at the heart of their defence to handle the rigours of multiple competitions.
One name that continues to be linked with a move to St James’ Park is Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Newcastle reportedly showed interest in the England international last year, and those links have resurfaced in recent weeks. However, according to Football Insider, the Magpies are not alone in their pursuit, with Arsenal also said to be tracking the highly-rated centre-back.
While Guehi remains a top target, Eddie Howe appears eager to keep his options open, and another defender has now emerged on Newcastle’s radar. The North East club could soon launch a move for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Jan Paul van Hecke, a player whose profile aligns with the club’s long-term vision.
Van Hecke the Latest Defensive Target
A report from 3 Added Minutes, penned by journalist Charlie Haffenden, claims that Newcastle have already made initial contact regarding a potential transfer for the Dutch centre-back. It is understood that the Magpies have opened talks with Van Hecke’s representatives to explore the possibility of a summer switch to Tyneside.
Newcastle have been monitoring the player closely in recent months and view him as a prime candidate to reinforce their backline. However, any move may not come easy. Liverpool, the newly crowned Premier League champions, are also believed to be interested, meaning Newcastle could face stiff competition for the 25-year-old’s signature.
Van Hecke is reportedly valued at a minimum of £60 million, according to Sussex World, and that figure could rise given Brighton’s strong negotiating position and the player’s growing importance to their squad.
What Van Hecke Would Bring to Newcastle
Van Hecke has rapidly developed into one of the standout centre-backs in the English top flight. A full international for the Netherlands, his performances for Brighton last season have caught the attention of several top clubs. At 25, he possesses the ideal blend of youth and experience, making him a perfect candidate for a long-term defensive role.
During the 2024/25 Premier League season, Van Hecke was a regular fixture in Brighton’s starting XI, appearing in 34 league matches. He missed just three games—two due to minor injuries and one because of suspension. His contributions were vital as Brighton kept eight clean sheets, with Van Hecke playing the full 90 minutes in all but one of those shutouts. He also chipped in with a goal and an assist, showcasing his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Given his commanding presence and composed style, Van Hecke has arguably become the leader of Brighton’s defensive line. His maturity and consistency have not gone unnoticed, and Newcastle now see him as a potential replacement—and upgrade—for veteran defender Dan Burn.
A Natural Successor to Dan Burn?
Dan Burn has been an important figure for Newcastle since his arrival from Brighton, and his connection to the club as a local lad has made him a fan favourite. However, at 33 years old, Burn is approaching the latter stages of his career. While he remains a reliable option—having featured in 37 Premier League games last season and scored a crucial goal in the Carabao Cup final—there is recognition within the club that the defensive line needs to be future-proofed.
Van Hecke could represent both an immediate upgrade and a long-term solution. His ball-playing abilities, in particular, stand out when compared to Burn. According to statistics from FBref, Van Hecke averaged 6.93 progressive passes and 3.98 ball recoveries per 90 minutes last season. In contrast, Burn averaged just 2.03 progressive passes and 2.78 recoveries per 90 minutes—a significant difference in ball progression and defensive efficiency.
This data highlights why Van Hecke is so highly rated. He’s not only defensively solid but also a key initiator of attacking moves, which fits well with Howe’s desire for a more dynamic and modern style of play. Newcastle content creator Pete Davey went as far as to call him “outstanding,” and the numbers back up that assessment.
Final Thoughts
Newcastle United find themselves at a crucial crossroads. They have achieved Champions League qualification once again and are building the kind of project that could see them become a fixture at the top end of English football. Strengthening their defence with a player of Jan Paul van Hecke’s calibre could be a decisive move in that direction.
While Dan Burn remains an important presence at the club, football waits for no one, and the Magpies will need to think strategically. Van Hecke, with his quality, youth, and potential for further development, seems like a smart investment—one that could pay dividends both domestically and in Europe.
Whether or not a deal materialises, it’s clear that Newcastle United are targeting ambitious signings this summer. The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the squad for what promises to be a demanding yet exciting 2025/26 season.