Here is the summarized article with the required format and structure:
- Liverpool’s Sepp Van den Berg has featured in both pre-season matches, impressing in the Bundesliga last season.
- The defender’s £20m valuation has raised eyebrows, but he’s ready to prove himself.
- FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED as Liverpool beat Real Betis 1-0 in Pittsburgh
Liverpool youngster Sepp Van den Berg has expressed surprise at his £20m valuation, but believes it’s a compliment and is ready to fight for a place in Arne Slot’s plans.
Van den Berg has made just four senior appearances for the Reds since signing from PEC Zwolle in 2019, spending two years on loan at Championship side Preston and another with German Bundesliga clubs Schalke and Mainz.
However, after an impressive season at Mainz, where he played the most minutes of any player and was the highest-rated defender in the Bundesliga according to WhoScored rankings, Van den Berg has seen his value rise with several clubs keen on taking him on.
Sepp Van den Berg (right) admits he was surprised that his asking price was as high as £20-25m
Van den Berg believes his valuation is too high, but is not in any rush to leave Anfield. He played in both of Liverpool’s friendlies so far, including former club Preston and a win over Spanish side Real Betis in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He put in a solid shift in both outings.
The 22-year-old is willing to stay and work for a place in the side, and has spoken with new manager Arne Slot about his future.
Van den Berg insisted that although his future is up in the air he is more than willing to stay and work for a place in the side
He added: ‘Of course, I am here now. Liverpool is one of the biggest, if not the biggest club in the world. It has always been my dream. I am here to show myself I am Liverpool worthy. If he gives me a chance and likes me, there’s a big chance of me staying.’
Van den Berg’s impressive loan spell at Mainz has raised his profile, and he’s now ready to prove himself at Anfield.
He was the Bundesliga’s highest-rated defender while on loan at Mainz last season, according to WhoScored