Promising young defender Sepp van den Berg joined Liverpool in the summer of 2019, but failed to gain the trust of Jurgen Klopp’s regime and was forced to spend time on loan at Preston North End, Schalke and Mainz.
The 22-year-old centre-back, who is likely to be given a new role under new coach Arne Slot, has become a hot property in Europe thanks to his fine performances for Mainz last season, and several clubs have shown interest in him during the transfer window this summer.
The player would prefer to move to another club rather than stay at Anfield, where he is not guaranteed a regular place.
Despite his popularity mainly in the Bundesliga, Hoffenheim have also decided to enter the battle for the player, according to German Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.
“TSG Hoffenheim have entered the race for Sepp van den Berg.”
“22 y/o central defender wants to leave Liverpool this transfer window as reported.”
“Talks between Hoffenheim and the player’s side have taken place. No talks with Liverpool yet.”
“Mainz 05, still there but Liverpool demand €20m now.”
🚨🔵 Excl. | TSG Hoffenheim have entered the race for Sepp van den Berg!
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 24, 2024
22 y/o central defender wants to leave Liverpool this transfer window as reported.
Talks between Hoffenheim and the player’s side have taken place. No talks with #LFC yet.
Mainz 05, still there but… pic.twitter.com/1Bv7IYTFex
The Dutch coach has high hopes for the young centre-back and wants to check in pre-season whether he can replace former Cameroon defender Joel Matip, who left the club when his contract expired, and does not seem inclined to let him go right now.
Some clubs are said to think the €20 million asking price is too high, but will the Dutch centre-back stay at Liverpool or will he find a new club in Germany…?