Tottenham Hotspur have reached an agreement to sign Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke. Standard Sport understands Spurs will pay a £52million fixed fee for the 26-year-old, with no add-ons.
Swap deal reports dismissed
It had been reported earlier in the week that the Seagulls had tried to include Tottenham's centre-back Luka Vuskovic as part of a swap deal for Van Hecke. That deal, though, is believed to be separate with further reports suggesting that a £35m bid for Vuskovic has been rejected by Spurs.
Third summer signing
Van Hecke looks set to become Spurs' third signing of the summer after the arrivals of Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson. He has previously worked with Roberto De Zerbi at the Amex Stadium and is noted as one of the most accomplished ball-playing defenders in the Premier League.
Signal of intent
Van Hecke's arrival is the latest signal of intent in the transfer market from Spurs, who are determined to put last season's 17th place finish behind them. The north London club are targeting Premier League proven players and have also been credited with interest in Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali and Manchester City winger Savinho.
Further targets
Reports suggest that Spurs have been in touch with Tonali's representatives in a deal backed by De Zerbi and the club's ownership. It is, however, believed that any fee would have to be substantial to prize him away from Newcastle, who spent £55m to sign him from AC Milan in 2023. Spurs also hold a longstanding interest in Savinho, who wants regular first-team minutes, and are open to re-entering negotiations for the Brazilian.
