Tottenham in talks to sign Brighton defender van Hecke

Tottenham Hotspur are advancing in their efforts to sign Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke, with the player reportedly favoring a move to reunite with manager Roberto De Zerbi despite interest from Liverpool. The North London club has already seen two bids for the 26-year-old Netherlands international rejected, the latest reportedly valued at £50 million, but negotiations are ongoing with a new round of talks scheduled for this week.

Brighton is understood to value Van Hecke closer to £70 million, though the club's negotiating position is influenced by the defender having entered the final year of his contract. Sources indicate Tottenham have already reached an agreement on personal terms with Van Hecke and are preparing an improved offer, potentially worth up to £60 million, which they hope will secure the transfer.

The pursuit of Van Hecke is part of a significant defensive overhaul at Tottenham this summer. The club has already confirmed the signing of left-back Andrew Robertson on a free transfer following his departure from Liverpool, and a deal for Bournemouth centre-back Marcos Senesi, also a free agent, is expected to be finalized imminently. These moves...