Tottenham pursue Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke in defensive rebuild
Tottenham Hotspur have taken the first steps to sign Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke this summer as manager Roberto De Zerbi plots a major defensive overhaul.
Spurs face fierce competition from Premier League rivals Liverpool and Chelsea for the 25-year-old centre-back.
However, the north London club hope De Zerbi’s strong existing relationship with the Dutchman will secure his signature.
The Italian tactician managed the commanding defender during a highly successful spell on the south coast.
Defensive exodus expected at Spurs
A significant reconstruction of the Lilywhites’ backline is anticipated during the upcoming transfer window.
Club captain Cristian Romero is expected to depart despite his immense importance to the starting lineup.
Senior football correspondent Ben Jacobs described the Argentine World Cup winner’s impending departure as a begrudging exit.
“Even if Tottenham do stay up there is a concrete possibility that he goes.”
Radu Dragusin is also attracting continental interest and is likely to follow the South American out of the club.
Meanwhile, veteran full-back Ben Davies will leave when his current contract expires in June.
Reuniting with former favourites
To counter these heavy losses, the Spurs hierarchy have reportedly agreed deals in principle for two experienced free agents.
Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson and Bournemouth centre-half Marcos Senesi are poised to arrive, provided Tottenham avoid relegation.
But securing Van Hecke remains an absolute priority to anchor the new-look defence.
The former Blackburn Rovers loanee has been integral to the Seagulls’ push for European qualification this season, starting 32 league matches.
De Zerbi previously praised his rapid development at the Amex Stadium.
“He is improving in an incredible way. His level is high, higher than people think. I am very proud of JP, his improvement has been fantastic.”
Brighton skipper Lewis Dunk echoed those sentiments earlier this year, calling the centre-half’s progress the biggest improvement he had seen under the Italian manager.
Spurs may not stop their south coast raiding there.
Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen has also been identified as a potential target to replace the outgoing Guglielmo Vicario.