Mainz boss Christian Heidel has admitted they remain hopeful of signing Sepp van den Berg from Liverpool but are dependent on the Reds making a decision on him.
Journalist Florian Plettenberg covers comments from Heidel today as Van den Berg’s future remains up in the air.
The Dutch defender has returned to Liverpool this summer after spending last season on loan with the German side.
He established himself as a key player at the club and proved to be a massive success, so much so that they would love to have him back this season.
Liverpool are yet to decide what to do with the defender, though, with new manager Arne Slot having decided to keep him as part of his squad during pre-season to take a closer look at him.
That’s despite the player having made it clear he’s not keen on staying if he won’t be a first-team regular, which seems likely to be the case given Liverpool’s current options.
Mainz have largely remained on the periphery as they can’t afford a permanent deal and Heidel has admitted that remains the case, with them very much dependent on what Liverpool decide to do.
“We are a bit dependent on FC Liverpool. I know that he would very much like to return to Mainz. Perhaps the player’s voice will play a role in Liverpool’s decision,” he said.
“Of course, it is Liverpool’s legitimate right to put a price tag on the player. But then there has to be a club willing to pay that price, and the player has to want to go there.
“As of today, that’s not the case, which is why we still have a chance. If Liverpool loans him out for another year, then we are the perfect club. Sepp would confirm that as well. We are waiting a bit longer and preparing ourselves in case it doesn’t work out.”
