Tottenham’s £50 million bid for Jan Paul van Hecke stalls as Brighton holds firm

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed they have agreed personal terms with Dutch centre‑back Jan Paul van Hecke, who has told clubs that it is “Spurs and only Spurs”. The player, who has impressed under Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton, wants to reunite with the manager in north London.

Brighton & Hove Albion, however, have rejected two offers and are valuing the 25‑year‑old at around £50 million (about €50 million). CEO Paul Barber said any deal must “make total financial sense for the club”. The transfer fee remains the last hurdle.

Other Premier League sides – Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle United – showed interest, but van Hecke turned them down. Tottenham, still rebuilding after a narrow escape from relegation, have already secured Andy Robertson on a free and are negotiating for Marcos Senesi. Adding van Hecke would give De Zerbi a defender familiar with his system and bolster a defence that struggled last season.