Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a deal worth £52 million to sign Dutch defender Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton as Roberto De Zerbi continues to reshape his squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Softfootball understands The Netherlands international is set to reunite with De Zerbi, having previously worked under the Italian coach at Brighton between 2023 and 2024.
The move comes amid Spurs’ growing activity in the transfer market, with the club also reportedly interested in Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali as preparations continue for the new campaign.
Van Hecke reportedly expressed a strong desire to make the move and play under a manager he views as a “father figure.”
The 26-year-old had just one year remaining on his Brighton contract, paving the way for negotiations between the two clubs. Brighton are set to make a significant profit on the defender, having signed him from NAC Breda for just £1.8 million in 2020. The Seagulls have also secured a 20% sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Van Hecke is expected to join fellow defensive recruit Marcos Senesi as Tottenham look to strengthen and rebuild their backline under De Zerbi’s leadership.
