Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the signature of Netherlands international Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for a reported fee of 52 million pounds ($68 million).
The 26-year-old Van Hecke, who is playing at the World Cup, will be reunited with coach Roberto De Zerbi, having played for him at Brighton.
“I already have a really strong connection with the head coach, who I’m looking forward to working with again,” Van Hecke said in the Premier League club’s announcement.
Tottenham described Van Hecke as “passionate and imposing.” The team said he signed a “long-term contract” without specifying the number of seasons.
Jan Paul van Hecke is representing Holland at the 2026 World Cup. (Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
“He is a strong, intelligent centre back who is brave in possession and plays with personality,” De Zerbi said. “Those are important qualities for the way I want our team to set up.”
Van Hecke made his World Cup debut on Sunday in the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Japan.
Having escape relegation last season, Tottenham has been bolstering its defensive ranks. The London club have signed Argentina center back Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth and left-back Andy Robertson from Liverpool on free transfers.
