Club Brugge manager Ivan Leko has stated that defender Joaquin Seys has the talent to 'reach the absolute top of the Premier League', amid reported transfer interest from Manchester United and Arsenal. The 21-year-old left-back, valued at €35 million (£30 million), has been the subject of enquiries from both Premier League clubs ahead of the summer transfer deadline, according to reports this week.
Breakthrough and Title Success
Seys emerged from Brugge's academy to make his first-team debut in 2024, quickly establishing himself as one of Belgian football's brightest young talents. Last season, he made 55 appearances in all competitions, playing a key role in helping his boyhood club secure the Belgian Pro League title for the seventh time in the last decade.
His performances earned him a call-up to Belgium's squad for this summer's World Cup, although he saw limited playing time behind first-choice left-back Maxim De Cuyper under coach Rudi Garcia. However, Seys made a notable impact as a second-half substitute for De Cuyper in the quarter-finals against eventual champions Spain, earning widespread praise for his display against Lamine Yamal.
Manager's Endorsement
In an interview with Flemish newspaper De Morgen, published on Tuesday, Leko expressed strong confidence in Seys' potential. 'I see him reaching the absolute top of the Premier League. In my opinion, he has no ceiling,' Leko said. 'He has the talent, the character, and above all, the right mentality.'
Leko also revealed that Brugge players not selected for the World Cup gathered to watch Seys' cameo against Spain. 'He may have only played thirty minutes at the World Cup, in the quarter-final against Spain, but what a half-hour it was!' he added. 'We watched that match with the entire squad in Rotterdam, the day after our friendly against Feyenoord. The atmosphere was fantastic, because Joa more than held his own against Lamine Yamal, one of the best players in the world. He is extraordinary.'
Work Ethic and Interest
According to Leko, Seys is known for his dedication at the training ground. 'That's just how he is: he arrives first and leaves last,' the former Croatia midfielder explained. 'There are so many guys like that walking around in our dressing room, players with an indestructible mentality.'
Leko also highlighted other players who contributed to Brugge's success: 'They made the difference last season: Tzolis, Stankovic, Tresoldi, Romeo Vermant… And do you know who else? Kyriani Sabbe. Just keep an eye on him this season.'
Manchester United are reportedly considering Seys as a backup option, with Newcastle having ruled out a move for their primary target, Lewis Hall. Aston Villa, Newcastle, Benfica, and Porto have also been linked with an interest in Seys in recent weeks. Seys has three years remaining on his current contract at Brugge's Jan Breydel Stadium.
