Jan Paul van Hecke of Brighton & Hove Albion acknowledges the fans. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

'Tottenham’s interest is relatively genuine': Spurs keen on 'incredible' defender

Originally posted on the Boy Hotspur | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 2:10 PM ET

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in the Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke.

The 25-year-old has done quite well for Brighton, and it is not surprising that top clubs are keeping tabs on him. It will be interesting to see if Brighton is willing to sanction the departure.

Spurs could use depth in the defensive unit. They were vulnerable at the back last season, and they need to tighten up if they want to fight for trophies.

Spurs keen on Van Hecke

Journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that the Dutch defender is appreciated by Tottenham and they have a genuine interest in the player. He has been labelled as an “incredible” defender by Roberto De Zerbi.

Jacobs revealed on Last Word on Spurs podcast: “Van Hecke’s not a new link, of course, and is appreciated by Tottenham. Whether or not he’ll be allowed to leave Brighton this window, I think, remains to be seen. Brighton sources had quite a lot of pushback on the idea that they would sanction anything. But I am led to believe that Tottenham’s interest is relatively genuine there.”

Jan Paul van Hecke could be tempted to join

The opportunity to join Spurs could be quite exciting for the defender. It would be a step up in his career. Moving to the north London club would allow him to reunite with his compatriot Micky van de Ven at the club level.

It will be interesting to see if the Tottenham star can play a role in getting the deal done.

Tottenham are a big club, and they will be an attractive destination for the Brighton star. However, convincing the Seagulls to sell the player could prove to be difficult. They will not want to lose a key player.

Meanwhile, Tottenham have secured Champions League qualification, and they will be against elite players next season. They need quality defenders to survive in Europe. The Dutch International will certainly help them improve if he joins the club.

“Player wants a move”: Journalist confirms Tottenham considering move for £22m playmaker

This article first appeared on the Boy Hotspur and was syndicated with permission.

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