Liverpool Set £20m Asking Price For Brentford And Southampton Target
Liverpool have reportedly set a £20m price tag on Sepp van den Berg, who is attracting interest from Brentford and Southampton.
The 22-year-old, who came through the ranks at Dutch club PEC Zwolle, joined Liverpool in the summer of 2019.
In the five years since his move, Van den Berg has made just four first-team appearances for the Reds, spending time on loan at Preston North End, Schalke 04, and Mainz 05.
The centre-back recently had an impressive loan stint with Mainz 05, playing in 33 of the club’s 34 Bundesliga matches during the 2023-24 season.
After contributing to Mainz’s successful fight for safety, Van den Berg is set to return to Liverpool ahead of Arne Slot’s first season as manager.
Liverpool Set Van den Berg Asking Price
However, a final decision has yet to be made on whether Liverpool will sell Van den Berg or integrate him into the first-team squad.
According to The Athletic, Liverpool will hold out for a £20m fee if they decide to part ways with Van den Berg ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
The report indicates that Brentford and newly-promoted Southampton are among the clubs interested in the central defender.
Brentford appear keen to strengthen their backline after conceding 65 Premier League goals in 2023-24, a significant increase from the 46 goals they conceded in 2022-23.
Meanwhile, Southampton are already formulating transfer plans following their 1-0 victory against Leeds United in Sunday’s Championship playoff final.
Van den Berg Could Stay at Anfield
In addition to Premier League interest, Van den Berg is reportedly a target for Wolfsburg and Ajax.
Mainz are also eager to bring Van den Berg back to the Mewa Arena, though they might struggle to meet Liverpool’s financial demands.
While a summer exit is possible, Liverpool may decide to retain the Dutchman if he impresses Arne Slot during pre-season.
The Reds will have a vacancy in their defense as experienced defender Joel Matip is set to leave upon the expiration of his contract.
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