Mallorca Rejects KAA Gent’s €2 Million Bid for Siebe Van der Heyden
Transfer Negotiations Heat Up as Mallorca Holds Firm
**Mallorca has officially turned down KAA Gent’s initial offer of approximately €2 million** for Belgian center-back *Siebe Van der Heyden*, considering the bid too low for the defender’s potential value[2][3]. This rejection comes amid ongoing talks, with Mallorca aiming to balance their squad but unwilling to settle for less than their valuation.
Van der Heyden’s Journey and Current Situation
Siebe Van der Heyden, 26, moved to Mallorca in 2023 from Union SG for around €4 million but has struggled to get regular first-team football in Spain, logging just 96 La Liga minutes over two seasons[1][3]. Recently, he was loaned to FC St. Pauli, where under coach Alexander Blessin—his former Saint-Gilloise manager—he gained significant playing time[2]. Despite this, Mallorca currently has a surplus of central defenders, planning to play with four at the back and considering offloading players like Van der Heyden to streamline the squad[3].
KAA Gent’s Interest and Squad Needs
KAA Gent is actively seeking a reliable replacement for Tsuyoshi Watanabe, who is expected to leave for Feyenoord imminently[3]. The Belgian club views Van der Heyden as a perfect fit—a defender who can step in immediately and who is motivated to return to the Belgian Pro League for more consistent playing time[3]. His familiarity with the league, plus his desire to revive his career at home, aligns well with Gent’s ambitions.
Negotiation Status and Future Prospects
Mallorca’s sporting director has already rejected **two offers** for Van der Heyden and another defender, signaling that better proposals will be necessary for any deal to progress[3]. However, the player’s willingness to return to Belgium and Gent’s urgent need may push negotiations toward a compromise soon.
What This Means for All Parties
– **For Mallorca:** Maintaining squad balance and securing fair market value for players amid defensive surplus.
– **For Van der Heyden:** A crucial period to find regular playing time and relaunch his career in the Belgian Pro League.
– **For KAA Gent:** A strategic move to shore up defense following anticipated departures.
This story remains dynamic as the summer transfer window progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mallorca reject KAA Gent’s €2 million offer for Siebe Van der Heyden?
Mallorca considered the €2 million bid too low for Van der Heyden’s value and potential contribution. The club wants a higher offer to reflect the player’s abilities and market worth[3].
What is Siebe Van der Heyden’s current playing status?
Van der Heyden has struggled for regular minutes at Mallorca but gained significant playing time during a recent loan spell at FC St. Pauli under coach Alexander Blessin[2][3].
Why is KAA Gent interested in signing Van der Heyden?
KAA Gent needs a dependable central defender to replace Tsuyoshi Watanabe, who is likely leaving for Feyenoord. Van der Heyden fits their profile and also desires more playing time in Belgium[3].
Are there other clubs interested in Van der Heyden?
Besides KAA Gent, Anderlecht has shown interest, especially given Van der Heyden’s past connections and familiarity with Belgian football[1].
What is the next step in these transfer negotiations?
Mallorca is expected to wait for an improved offer from KAA Gent or other suitors before engaging in serious transfer talks for Van der Heyden[3].
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