Tottenham have two bids rejected by Brighton for defender Jan Paul van Hecke

Tottenham Hotspur have had two bids rejected by Brighton & Hove Albion for defender Jan Paul van Hecke in the past week. The Dutch centre-back is a key target for Spurs as they look to strengthen their defense ahead of the new Premier League season.

Tottenham Hotspur have had two bids rejected by Brighton & Hove Albion for defender Jan Paul van Hecke, as confirmed by Brighton CEO Paul Barber. The Dutch centre-back, who was signed from NAC Breda for £2 million in 2020, remains a key target for Spurs as they seek to strengthen their defense ahead of the next Premier League season.

Van Hecke is entering the final year of his Brighton contract but is valued around £50 million, a figure reflecting interest not only from Tottenham but also from Liverpool and Newcastle. Brighton’s rejection of the offers highlights the club’s commitment to maintaining its transfer policy and assessing any moves carefully according to their recruitment model.

Barber emphasized the importance of deals suiting both the club and the player, stating the need to support Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler for the new season as the team competes in European competition for the first time after finishing eighth twice in the Premier League. He also mentioned balancing the squad with a mix of young talent and experienced players such as Pascal Gross.

For Tottenham, the pursuit of Van Hecke is part of a broader defensive rebuild. The club has already made additions, including the arrival of Andy Robertson from Liverpool on a free transfer, and is expected to sign Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth. Van Hecke offers Premier League experience, technical ability, and reliability at a moment when Tottenham are looking to address past defensive fragilities.

Uncertainty around Cristian Romero’s status—which has been affected by suspensions, injuries, and controversies—adds urgency to Tottenham’s search for defensive stability. Van Hecke is seen as a signing that would represent seriousness in reshaping Spurs’ defensive line rather than a high-profile marquee addition.