theglobalsun – Tottenham Hotspur are expected to submit an improved offer for Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke after their opening bid was rejected. The Dutch international has become one of Spurs’ leading defensive targets during the summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old remains with the Netherlands squad as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although the tournament commands his immediate attention, negotiations between the two Premier League clubs can continue in the background.
Tottenham’s interest is driven partly by new head coach Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian manager previously worked with Van Hecke at Brighton and is eager to reunite with the defender.
De Zerbi oversaw Van Hecke’s development into one of Brighton’s most reliable players. The defender established himself as a regular starter under the Italian before De Zerbi departed the club.
Brighton have already rejected Tottenham’s opening approach. However, club officials expect Spurs to return with an improved proposal in the coming weeks.
The Seagulls reportedly value Van Hecke at around £70 million. Brighton later clarified that they rejected an opening bid rather than a £70 million offer itself.
The defender has only one year remaining on his current contract. Nevertheless, Brighton remain determined to protect the value of one of their most important players.
Roberto De Zerbi Targets Former Brighton Defender as Tottenham Strengthen Back Line
Van Hecke joined Brighton from Dutch side NAC Breda in 2020 for a relatively modest transfer fee. Since arriving in England, his development has significantly increased both his reputation and market value.
Before establishing himself in Brighton’s first team, the centre-back gained valuable experience during loan spells at Heerenveen and Blackburn Rovers. Those moves helped accelerate his progress before his Premier League breakthrough.
The Dutch defender has now made 131 appearances for Brighton across all competitions. During the previous Premier League season, he started 36 league matches and became a key figure in the club’s defence.
His consistent performances also earned him regular international recognition with the Netherlands. Selection for the World Cup further highlights his growing status in European football.
The London club continues to reshape its squad ahead of the new campaign. Reinforcing central defence remains one of the club’s primary transfer priorities this summer.
Brighton, however, have built a reputation for negotiating firmly when selling key players. The club has consistently secured substantial transfer fees before allowing important players to leave.
Brighton Hold Firm as Transfer Talks Continue Over £70 Million-Valued Defender
Brighton’s strong negotiating record has become one of the club’s defining characteristics in recent years. The Seagulls have previously received transfer fees exceeding £50 million for Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, and Joao Pedro.
The club also places considerable emphasis on succession planning before approving major departures. That strategy has enabled Brighton to remain competitive despite losing several high-profile players.
Responsibility for outgoing transfers now rests with chief executive Paul Barber. He assumed that role following the unexpected departure of sporting director Jason Ayto, whose exit was confirmed on Wednesday.
Barber is expected to oversee negotiations involving Van Hecke while working closely with owner Tony Bloom. Both executives have consistently demonstrated patience during high-value transfer discussions.
Although Van Hecke’s contract expires next year, Brighton are unlikely to lower their valuation without receiving an offer they consider appropriate. The club believes the defender remains one of its most valuable assets.
If Tottenham eventually satisfy Brighton’s demands, the club is expected to have replacement plans already prepared. Forward planning has long been a central feature of Brighton’s recruitment model.
For Tottenham, securing Van Hecke would represent a significant statement of intent under De Zerbi’s leadership. The defender’s Premier League experience and understanding of the manager’s tactical philosophy make him an attractive target.
Negotiations are expected to continue throughout the transfer window as Tottenham consider returning with an improved bid. Brighton, meanwhile, remain committed to protecting the value of one of their leading defenders while preparing for every possible outcome before the new season begins.
