Tottenham Hotspur have an agreement in place with Brighton & Hove Albion to sign Jan Paul van Hecke this summer.
The Premier League sides haven’t confirmed the Netherlands international’s move to the north London club yet. The Brighton player is now at the World Cup and played the full 90 minutes in the 2-2 draw against Japan.
Van Hecke is focusing on the national team while Tottenham have agreed terms for his transfer.
De Zerbi key in picking Tottenham
The defender’s uncle, Jan Poortvliet, is happy that he can now focus on the World Cup, after sorting out his move to Tottenham. Sportnieuws have relayed his comments.
“Fantastic, truly wonderful,” he said.
“This is going to give him an extra boost during the World Cup. This is such a great motivation. He doesn’t have to worry about it anymore either; full focus on the World Cup and then off to London. That is also more fun than Brighton. This is a city you love to visit.”
Brighton & Hove Albion signed the defender from NAC Breda in 2020 and sent him on loan to Heerenveen and Blackburn Rovers.
During his time at The Amex, he played under Roberto De Zerbi between 2022 and 2024.
Earlier this month, Sport Witness covered claims from the Dutch press that the defender had snubbed Liverpool for Spurs. The Italian has convinced Jan Paul van Hecke to join Tottenham Hotspur.
Poortvliet, who represented the Netherlands during his playing career, backs up this claim.
“I think De Zerbi played the biggest role in the decision. Several clubs were interested, but De Zerbi was clear and wanted him at all costs,” Poortvliet explained.
“Jan Paul would have been at the top of the list. He knows De Zerbi’s playing style well and had a great season under him. I think this is the best step.”
What can Tottenham expect from Dutch defender
Jan Poortvliet spoke about the challenges Jan Paul van Hecke overcame at Brighton & Hove Albion.
“He is a service player who doesn’t go for his own success and leaves that to others. So, it is nice to see that he fits in well in such a team and everyone thinks: he could be even better,” he added.
“When he came to Brighton and saw the pace, he thought he would never make it. He had to adapt everything he knew, and he did.
“He always adapts and has ensured that he receives appreciation everywhere and he was named Player of the Year at Brighton. That is very impressive because he is at the top of the world. I hope he gets to play many matches, for the Dutch national team and Spurs.”
