Liverpool have slapped a £20 million asking price on their highly regarded defender Sepp van den Berg, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Despite interest from several clubs, the Reds are holding firm, refusing to entertain any offers in the £10-12 million range.
Ven den Berg joined Liverpool from PEC Zwolle for just £1,6 million. But since joining Liverpool he has struggled to break into the first team, making only four appearances under former manager Jurgen Klopp.
Despite being a standout performer in pre-season, his prospects under new manager Arne Slot don’t appear to have changed. The 22-year-old Dutchman has just two years left on his current contract, and Liverpool are looking to capitalize on his rising stock by securing a substantial profit from his potential sale.
There are rumours that the club might consider lower bids, Romano contradicts that Liverpool are sticking to their £20 million valuation. In terms of transfer market, Romano’s opinion is as good as a judge’s verdict.
Sepp van den Berg Standout for Mainz
Since joining Liverpool, Van den Berg has spent his time on loan to Preston North End and FC Schalke 04. But, Van den Berg’s reputation has grown significantly following an exceptional 2023/24 loan spell at FSV Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga.
During his time at Germany, he made 35 appearances across all competitions and claimed three goals to his name. The 22-year-old was in phenomenal form for the 05ers throughout the season as Mainz narrowly avoided the relegation play-offs by just two points.
His performance boasts of 8 clean sheets and strong defensive stats. He recorded 1.3 interceptions, 1.2 tackles, 5.3 ball recoveries, 4.7 clearances per 90 minutes. He had a solid 56% success rate in ground duels. But his true strength is in the air. He was almost unbeatable with 69% success rate in aerial battles.
Despite Liverpool’s current shortage on centre-back options following Joel Matip’s departure at the end of last season, Van den Berg seems set for permanent exit. The club is banking on academy talent Jarell Quansah to replace the Cameroonian defender.
Although Liverpool may have to lower their demands, as interested Bundesliga clubs are unwilling to match the Reds’ high financial demands.
Stats from sofascore.com
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