Tottenham have had an opening bid for Jan Paul van Hecke turned down by Brighton. The central defender previously played under Roberto De Zerbi at the Seagulls, with the Italian clearly eager to reunite with the centre-back in north London.
According to The Telegraph, Spurs’ initial offer for the Netherlands international fell short of Brighton’s valuation, which is believed to be £70million, though talks are set to continue. Chelsea and Liverpool have also been noted as other interested parties.
Van Hecke, who has just one year remaining on his Brighton contract, is the latest defender to be linked with Tottenham. The Lilywhites have already secured deals for Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson on free transfers after their respective exits from Bournemouth and Liverpool.
Both signings were all but wrapped up back in April, though they hinged on Spurs confirming their Premier League status before either could be officially completed.
Tottenham ultimately secured their survival on the final day with a win over Everton, as West Ham United dropped down to the Championship.
Retaining their top-flight status proved crucial to shaping their summer transfer plans, allowing Spurs to pursue targets such as Van Hecke.
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page
And the former Blackburn Rovers loannee has been touted for a move to Spurs by ex-midfielder Sandro, who also has a close relationship with De Zerbi.
“They are talking about Marcos Senesi, at Bournemouth, but I really like the defender from Brighton, Van Hecke. I really like him. He’s good on the ball, he played with De Zerbi before too,” said Sandro, speaking exclusively to Reach PLC via Ivy Casino.
“He’s not only good on the ball, but he can be very aggressive and in a way that he’s not stupid, he’s not doing crazy things without the ball, but I think he’s mature.
View 2 ImagesMarcos Senesi is expected to join Tottenham
“For me, Van Hecke is ready. He’s ready to play because he played under De Zerbi and he showed that he can play in the moment, that he’s mature, and we need players that are already mature. I think we are now going to the market and have to buy players that are ready.”
Article continues below
Sandro’s fellow countrymen Savinho is also a target for Spurs with Manchester City set for a new era. The Brazilian was heavily linked with a switch to Spurs last summer, and their interest has been rekindled following another difficult campaign for the 22-year-old.
Pep Guardiola played a crucial role in persuading him to remain at the Etihad Stadium for the 2025/26 campaign, but his subsequent departure from City could prove decisive.
His diminished playing time over the past nine months also suggests Spurs may not have to fork out the £70million they were quoted last summer.