De Zerbi urges Tottenham to sign £60m Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has made Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke his primary summer transfer target in a proposed £60m deal.
The north London club are currently fighting for Premier League survival, sitting just one point above the relegation zone with three matches remaining.
However, back-to-back victories under their newly appointed Italian head coach have placed their top-flight destiny firmly in their own hands.
Rebuilding a fragile defence
A significant defensive overhaul is anticipated at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium once the current campaign concludes.
World Cup winner Cristian Romero is widely expected to depart the capital, while serious doubts remain over the long-term future of fellow centre-back Micky van de Ven.
This potential defensive exodus has elevated the acquisition of a dominant central defender to an urgent priority for the Spurs hierarchy.
Liverpool have reportedly already initiated contact regarding the 25-year-old Netherlands international.
Despite the interest from Merseyside, the former Sassuolo tactician has explicitly informed club executives that he wants his former player leading the defensive line next season.
The Brighton connection
The Seagulls face an immense battle to retain their highly sought-after centre-half.
His current contract at the Amex Stadium expires in 2027, but negotiations over a lucrative extension have completely stalled.
Tottenham hope the opportunity for a reunion with his former mentor will provide a crucial advantage in the upcoming transfer window.
Regular first-team football is understood to be the deciding factor for the Dutch defender as he looks to cement his reputation in English football.
While the potential absence of European competition could complicate negotiations, the chance to become an undisputed starter in London represents a compelling offer.