Key facts
- Tottenham has signed Netherlands international Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton.
- The transfer fee is reported to be 52 million pounds ($68 million).
- Van Hecke, 26, has signed a long-term contract with Tottenham.
- He previously played under Tottenham's head coach Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton.
- Van Hecke made his World Cup debut in the Netherlands' draw with Japan.
Tottenham has completed the signing of Netherlands international center back Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for a reported fee of 52 million pounds ($68 million). The 26-year-old defender has signed a long-term contract with the Premier League club.
Van Hecke expressed his excitement about reuniting with head coach Roberto De Zerbi, with whom he previously worked at Brighton. De Zerbi described Van Hecke as a "strong, intelligent centre back who is brave in possession and plays with personality," qualities he deems essential for his team's setup.
Van Hecke, who had one year remaining on his contract with Brighton, also noted his anticipation of playing alongside international teammate Micky van de Ven at Tottenham. Tottenham's sporting director, Johan Lange, stated that the club had been monitoring Van Hecke for several years. Van Hecke made 131 appearances for Brighton and was a regular starter in their eighth-place finish last season, which secured European qualification.
Tottenham has been active in strengthening its defense, having also signed Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth and Andy Robertson from Liverpool on free transfers.