NAC weigh Jan Van den Bergh’s possible return to Breda after Japan stint

NAC are assessing the possibility of re‑signing 31‑year‑old defender Jan Van den Bergh, the Belgian who left the club for Japan last summer. The club’s interest was highlighted in a Vandaag update that noted the potential deal could be sealed before the summer window closes.

The Rat Verlegh Stadion could see the former captain back in Breda if the negotiations succeed. NAC are reportedly preparing a contract that would run until mid‑2027, giving the club a seasoned centre‑back for the next two seasons.

Van’s first spell at NAC between 2023 and 2025 made him a cult hero. Over seventy duels he scored eight times, and his hard‑working style earned him the captain’s armband and a place on the supporters’ benches.

He departed in the summer of 2025 for Júbilo Iwata, a second‑division side in Japan, after receiving an offer the Belgian could not refuse. The move was recorded in the club’s VIKeert report, which cited the financial terms as decisive.

While his Japanese contract ran until 31 December 2027, Van left the club early and has already reached a personal agreement with a team in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie. This personal deal is expected to smooth the transition back to the Dutch league.

The Rat Verlegh Stadion, often simply called the Rat Verlegh Stadion, remains a venue where Van’s long throws and relentless work ethic thrilled Breda fans. His presence would restore a familiar face to the home crowd.

Before joining NAC, the Belgian spent his entire career in Belgium, featuring for KSK Heist, Beerschot Wilrijk, KAA Gent, OH Leuven and Beerschot VA. The latter club, noted as Beerschot VA, marked the final stop before his first move abroad.

The update was authored by Joost BlaauwhofJournalist, who noted that the club’s hierarchy is keen to finalise the deal promptly. Should the agreement be reached, Van will once again wear the NAC badge at the Rat Verlegh Stadion.