Tottenham Hotspur have completed their third transfer of the summer with the arrival from Brighton of the Netherlands centre-back
Tottenham have sealed the transfer of Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton as Roberto De Zerbi continues to rebuild his defence.
Spurs had to pay £52million along with a reported 20 per cent sell-on clause to get the Netherlands international out of the remaining 12 months of his contract with the Seagulls but pushed through the move as the 26-year-old was someone De Zerbi made it clear he needed this coming season to shore up his leaky backline.
Tottenham have conceded 183 goals in the Premier League alone in the past three seasons and with captain Cristian Romero tipped to leave the north London club this summer along with Radu Dragusin, new centre-backs were required and De Zerbi has been reunited with a player in Van Hecke who developed into a top Premier League performer under him.
The Dutchman, who is currently playing at the World Cup for the Netherlands, has signed a long-term deal with the club.
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“It’s a huge honour to become a Spurs player and when you join such a big club, it’s a dream come true,” said Van Hecke. “I already have a really strong connection with the Head Coach, who I’m looking forward to working with again. Micky (van de Ven) has also told me some great things about the Club, so I can’t wait to get started.
“I’ve been at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as an opposition player and now I’m looking forward to walking out there in front of our fans wearing the Spurs shirt. That will be a special moment.”
Sporting Director Johan Lange, said: “Jan Paul is an outstanding defender who has excelled in the Premier League and at international level, and someone we have been tracking for a number of years.
“As well as his technical qualities and strong defensive instincts, he also has the maturity, character and professionalism that we look for when recruiting players.
“As we continue to build our squad, it is important to bring in players who can contribute immediately while also being part of our long-term vision. Jan Paul fits that profile perfectly, and we are excited about what he will bring to the team.”
De Zerbi added: “Jan Paul is someone I know very well from our time together at Brighton, and I’m delighted to be working with him again. He is a strong, intelligent centre-back who is brave in possession and plays with personality. Those are important qualities for the way I want our team to set-up.
“Off the pitch he is mature, a leader and has a hunger to learn and improve every day. Jan Paul has made great progress over the past few years and I believe he can develop even further here at Tottenham Hotspur.”
