Tottenham Hotspur are in talks to sign Brighton and Hove Albion centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke. David Ornstein reported on Thursday morning that Spurs had made an opening bid for the Dutchman, which was rejected. Van Hecke has one year remaining on his contract and is believed to be valued between £60 million and £70 million by Brighton.
Talks Ongoing in Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham Deal
Why Tottenham are interested in Van Hecke
Since signing for Brighton from NAC Breda for £1.8 million in 2020, Van Hecke has gradually become an integral part of the defence. Following two loan spells with Heerenveen and Blackburn Rovers, the defender has clocked up 131 appearances on the South Coast. Voted as Brighton’s Player of the Year in 2024/25, Van Hecke followed that up with an equally strong campaign this year.
What stands out is the Dutchman’s passing ability. Spurs’ interest appears to be driven by a desire to improve their build-up from deep. Tottenham’s struggles to play out from the back were well documented last season. Meanwhile, Roberto De Zerbi prioritises the ability to play through a press. Van Hecke ranked in the Premier League’s top five for passes completed and progressive passes per 90 in 2025/26. AFC Bournemouth’s Marco Senesi demonstrated similar passing competence, and Spurs’ links to him highlight a theme in De Zerbi’s recruitment.
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Tottenham’s Current Defender Situation
Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has been an automatic selection at centre-back when fit throughout his time in north London. However, rumoured interest abroad, discipline issues and recent controversy surrounding his commitment to the club have created a sense of inevitability around his departure this summer. Luka Vuskovic’s role next season also remains unclear, potentially creating further space in Tottenham’s centre-back plans.
Marco Senesi’s potential arrival means Van Hecke would be battling the Argentinian to partner Micky van de Ven at the heart of De Zerbi’s defence. Yet it was under the Italian that Van Hecke initially blossomed at Brighton, meaning he would require little adaptation to the manager’s intense demands.
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How Close is Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham?
Van Hecke, previously described as “incredible” is currently preparing for the FIFA World Cup with the Netherlands alongside Van de Ven, which could slow negotiations. However, while Tottenham’s opening bid may have been short of Brighton’s valuation, they are unlikely to be deterred. The Athletic previously reported that Van Hecke showed no interest in extending his current deal with the Seagulls, meaning a move this summer is likely Brighton’s only chance to maximise his transfer value.
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