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Heerenveen are keen on extending Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan-Paul van Hecke’s stay at the club next season if the Seagulls will allow it.

The young defender joined Brighton from NAC Breda in the summer but was immediately sent on loan to Heerenveen to get regular first-team football.

That is something he has found, establishing himself as a key player at the club and winning plaudits with his solid displays.

His deal at the club ends in the summer and, at this moment in time, it looks like he will be returning to Brighton once it does.

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Van Hecke recently admitted he didn’t know what the future holds for him, with the decision very much in Brighton’s hands at this moment in time.

Heerenveen’s temporary director of football Michel Jansen has now backed up those comments but insisted they would love to have Van Hecke back regardless.

“We are dependant on Brighton,” he told Leeuwander Courant.

“Moreover, Jan Paul himself must also want to play football with us for another year. It is clear that we are happy with him.

“Jan-Paul suits Heerenveen, character wise and as a football player.”