- Sepp Van den Berg has participated in both pre-season fixtures for Liverpool thus far.
- The defender enjoyed a strong loan spell at Mainz during last season in the Bundesliga.
- FIVE INSIGHTS from Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Real Betis in Pittsburgh.
Liverpool’s young talent Sepp Van den Berg believes the club’s £20 million asking price is excessively high; however, he views it as a positive sign and is determined to compete for a spot in Arne Slot’s plans.
Since his arrival at Liverpool from PEC Zwolle in 2019, Van den Berg has made merely four first-team appearances, while spending two years on loan at Championship’s Preston and afterwards in the Bundesliga with Schalke and Mainz.
Following an outstanding season with Mainz, during which he accumulated the most playing time and was the top-rated defender in the Bundesliga according to WhoScored, Van den Berg’s market value has surged as multiple teams have expressed interest in securing his services.
Nonetheless, he feels that the reported valuation of £20m to £25m may restrict potential transfers. “I recognize that in today’s market, high price tags are inevitable,” he noted. “Regarding the fee they have set for me, hmmm…”
“Liverpool might deem it reasonable as I had a solid season; however, £20-£25 million is a considerable amount. I hope we can reach a resolution. Whether I stay or leave, my first impression is that it’s quite steep! Yet, it is flattering. Nevertheless, it complicates matters; £20m is significantly high.”
Sepp Van den Berg (right) admits he was surprised that his asking price was as high as £20-25m.
The Dutch defender has significantly participated in Liverpool’s pre-season matches this summer.
Liverpool’s player valuation reflects the ongoing trends in the transfer market this summer. For instance, Bournemouth is reportedly signing Juventus defender Dean Huijsen for £12.6m plus add-ons after just nine Serie A appearances.
On the other hand, Van den Berg has nearly 150 appearances in competitive leagues. Following similar logic, Southampton paid £20m for Taylor Harwood-Bellis from Manchester City after two respectable seasons in the Championship. Hence, the Reds consider £20m for Van den Berg a fair assessment.
Despite everything, the 22-year-old is not in a hurry to depart Anfield. He has taken part in both of Liverpool’s pre-season matches, including games against his former club Preston and the victory over Real Betis in Pittsburgh, displaying commendable performances.
“I discussed with (Slot) on my initial day,” Van den Berg remarked. “He emphasized the importance of showcasing my abilities in pre-season. I have my aspirations, and I wish to play. We will take it one step at a time. I am content here; my objective is to play football next year, whether it’s here or elsewhere.”
Van den Berg emphasized that despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, he is willing to stay and vie for a position on the team.
He was the Bundesliga’s top-rated defender during his loan with Mainz last season, per WhoScored.
“Absolutely, I’m here now. Liverpool is among the largest, if not the largest, club in the world. It has always been my aspiration. I am here to demonstrate that I am worthy of Liverpool. If the coach likes what he sees and provides me with an opportunity, there’s a significant chance of my staying.”
“However, we are still early in the transfer window, so we will see what unfolds. I arrived here as a young boy at 17. I’ve played one and a half years in the Championship and two years in the Bundesliga. I still feel youthful, but at the same time, I’ve gained substantial experience! It’s all about getting playtime and further development. If I can achieve that here, there’s no better place to be.”
