Johan Lange and Roberto De Zerbi have explained what made Jan Paul van Hecke such a priority target for Tottenham Hotspur, with the club deciding to invest heavily in the Dutchman despite him having just one year remaining on his Brighton contract.
Tottenham Hotspur have now completed the signing of Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton and Hove Albion, with the Dutchman joining for £52 million.
He becomes the third new summer signing as Spurs embark on what is set to be a busy transfer window, one that could see them strengthen several areas of the squad.
Since putting pen to paper and completing his Tottenham medical, van Hecke has spoken to the Lilywhite faithful, explaining how eager he is to get started at the club.
Tottenham chiefs discuss Jan Paul van Hecke signing
Sporting director Johan Lange has also opened up following the signing of the 26-year-old centre-back.
Speaking to Tottenham’s official media team, Lange explained why the club had been tracking van Hecke for a number of years, outlining the qualities that made him such a strong fit for both the present and the future of the squad.
Discussing the defender’s attributes and the reasons behind Tottenham’s pursuit of the Dutch international, 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.”
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi welcomes reunion
Van Hecke is now set to reunite with Roberto De Zerbi, who was his manager for two seasons during the Italian’s spell at Brighton.
While he struggled for game time during De Zerbi’s first season, featuring just eight times, the Dutchman saw a significant increase in playing time during the Italian’s second campaign, making 28 appearances.
| Statistic | 2022/23 Season | 2023/24 Season | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squad Appearances | 32 | 32 | 0 |
| Starting XI Appearances | 3 | 26 | +23 |
| Substitutions On | 5 | 2 | -3 |
| On the Bench | 24 | 4 | -20 |
| Injured | 0 | 5 | +5 |
| Suspended | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Other Absences | 0 | 0 | 0 |
With De Zerbi reportedly keen on his addition this summer, the Tottenham head coach has also spoken about the defender and what he believes the 26-year-old will bring to the squad.
Speaking to Tottenham’s official media team about van Hecke’s development, character and suitability for his style of play,
De Zerbi said: “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.”
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