Tottenham complete the signing of Dutch centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton, according to multiple outlets. The move follows Spurs making it their third signing of the summer, aimed at strengthening a defence that conceded 122 goals across the last two league campaigns.
Van Hecke, 26, has previously worked with Tottenham coach Roberto De Zerbi, having been with him during two seasons at Brighton. De Zerbi identifies the defender as part of a broader effort to rebuild Tottenham’s back line. The Guardian reports that Spurs agreed a fee of £52m after two bids earlier in the month were rejected, and that Van Hecke signs a long-term contract.
The Guardian also frames the transfer within De Zerbi’s broader defensive focus after Brighton’s survival in the Premier League following a final-day home win over Everton in the 2025-26 season. Other reports similarly describe the deal as a reunion between player and coach and as a reinforcement of Spurs’ squad.
