BRUGES, BELGIUM — Club Brugge manager Ivan Leko has expressed pride over the growing transfer links connecting his star defender Joaquin Seys with Manchester United, with reports suggesting the Premier League giants could pay up to €35 million to secure the 21-year-old’s signature.
The Belgian international has emerged as a key target for United as they search for defensive reinforcements, with their primary target, Newcastle’s Lewis Hall, proving difficult to prise away from St. James’ Park. Seys, who has already made six senior appearances for Belgium including a notable 30-minute cameo against Spain at this summer’s World Cup, has become an increasingly attractive alternative.
Seys played a vital role in Brugge’s Jupiler Pro League title-winning campaign last season, registering two goals and five assists across 55 appearances. Despite his rising profile, his current estimated transfer value stands at around €16.5 million, and he still has three years remaining on his contract, giving Brugge significant leverage in any potential negotiations.
Leko acknowledged the interest from top clubs but remained optimistic about his players’ professionalism. “I’m proud that my players are being linked to clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Barcelona,” he said. “We discuss it occasionally. How much of it is true? I don’t know. But we recognize their potential, and they’re happy here.”
Brugge has benefited financially from recent sales, including winger Christos Tzolis to Arsenal, but Leko admitted the club remains a stepping stone for talented players. “If a significant offer comes in, it’s hard to say no,” he admitted. “Our goal is to build an even stronger team next season. The right moment for these players to leave will come, just like Tzolis proved. Let’s hope they stay until September.”
The Belgian club remains cautious about losing more key players like Seys and Nicolo Tresoldi, who both contributed significantly to their league-winning campaign. While the transfer window continues, Leko’s pride and Brugge’s pragmatic approach highlight the ongoing tug-of-war between ambition and opportunity for their rising stars. For Manchester United, Seys represents a promising alternative as they look to bolster their defensive options before the window closes.
