Liverpool transfers: Mainz exec reveals sticking point in Sepp van den Berg deal

Mainz executive Christian Heidel has expressed his desire to take defender Sepp van den Berg back despite admitting Liverpool's £20 million asking price isn’t an option.

After confirming Mainz aren’t in a position to match Liverpool’s value on the 22 year-old, Heidel would like to see the Dutchman return to the Bundesliga club on another loan deal.

“We would like him to stay and Sepp would also really like to do it. But we also respect that Liverpool have not decided about it yet.

“We will not buy a player for over £20 million, which is what Liverpool want. Our club cannot do that," he said according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg.

Van den Berg enjoyed an impressive campaign at Mainz in 2023/24 which has led to plenty of interest since reporting to pre-season with Liverpool last month.

The defender was a mainstay in Mainz's backline last season featuring 36 times and scoring four goals for the German side.

Mainz and fellow Bundesliga side Wolfsburg have seen permanent offers snubbed by the Anfield club, while PSV Eindhoven couldn’t compile a suitable financial package.

Liverpool’s valuation seemed to take the defender by surprise despite impressing last season.

“If you want to leave, then £20 million is quite a lot,” Van den Berg said with a smile in a recent press conference.

“I know in today’s market crazy things can happen. They put a price tag on me which Liverpool may think is right because I had a good season last year.

“The first reaction from me was that it was quite high! Of course, it is a compliment in one way. It’s a sign of how well I did last year.

“But it makes it a bit more difficult the other way. If they only thought I was worth £2 million, that wouldn’t be nice, but £20 million is maybe on the high side.”

Van den Berg wants to show he's 'Liverpool-worthy'

It’s always been clear that Van den Berg’s desire is to be playing regularly, whether that’s on Merseyside or elsewhere.

The Dutchman has impressed this summer at the heart of defence alongside Jarell Quansah, starting both of Liverpool’s friendlies thus far in the United States.

The defender has reiterated that his dream is to stay and play for Liverpool amid his visions to play regularly and willingness to move elsewhere for this to come to fruition.

“Maybe I stay, maybe I go. I am here now. Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in the world. It has always been my dream to play here and it still is my dream.

“I spoke with Arne [Slot] on the first day and he said I have to show myself in pre-season. Of course, I have my own visions about things. I like to play.

“I am here to show the new manager that I am Liverpool-worthy," Van den Berg said.