News Focus
- Tottenham Hotspur preparing improved offer for Brighton centre-back
- Roberto de Zerbi eager to work again with defender he managed previously
- Seagulls reportedly value Dutch international at £70 million
- Player has one year remaining on current contract at Amex Stadium
- Paul Barber now handling sales following sporting director’s exit
Brighton & Hove Albion expect Tottenham Hotspur to return with a revised offer for central defender Jan Paul van Hecke. The South Coast club recently turned down an initial approach from the North London outfit.
The 25-year-old Dutch international has entered the final 12 months of his deal at the Amex Stadium. New Spurs head coach Roberto de Zerbi previously managed the centre-back at Brighton. The Italian tactician is eager to reunite with the player.
The Seagulls originally signed the defender from Dutch side NAC Breda in 2020. Reports indicate Brighton now value Van Hecke at approximately £70 million.
Following loan spells with Heerenveen and Blackburn Rovers, the centre-back has become a key figure. He has made 131 total appearances for Brighton, including 36 Premier League starts last term.
Chief executive Paul Barber now oversees all outgoing transfers. This follows the recent departure of sporting director Jason Ayto, which the club confirmed this week.
Brighton are known for driving hard bargains. They previously secured fees exceeding £50 million for Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, and Joao Pedro. The club also plans strategically for the long term.
Given Van Hecke’s contract situation, Barber and owner Tony Bloom likely have contingency plans ready should a deal be agreed.