Tottenham Hotspur fans are now questioning whether the reported £70 million valuation of Jan Paul van Hecke is justified for a player who has just 12 months remaining on his contract.
In the last few hours, Spurs Web has reported about Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke.
This interest is not entirely new and has long been reported, with rumours circulating since the last summer transfer window.
While no move materialised then, the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi only saw the reports intensify, with Spurs Web reporting back in May that De Zerbi’s influence could prove pivotal in Tottenham’s race for Van Hecke.
Tottenham fans react after Jan Paul van Hecke bid rejected by Brighton
Today, it has been reported that Spurs have sent in an opening bid for Van Hecke to Brighton. That initial offer was quickly rejected as it did not meet the valuation of the Seagulls.
The amount Tottenham bid was not revealed, but subsequent reports relayed by Spurs Web have revealed just how much Brighton might be willing to accept for their Dutch centre-back.
A fee in the region of £50m-£70m might just be what the Seagulls demand if they are to lose Van Hecke, who has 12 months left on his contract.
Tottenham fans have now shared their reactions to the latest developments, and many do not believe Van Hecke is worth that much.
One Tottenham fan said: “That fee is ridiculous but I would not be surprised if it turns out to be 50+ considering his age and the interest around him.”
Another added: “It wont be 70 mill if he has 1 year left on his contract” talks about the fee kept coming in with another supporter commenting: “The “70 mill rated” headline is just for attention. Most likely a fee in the region of 35-45 mill I’d imagine.”
One other Tottenham fan is not too keen, stating: ’30 40 million tops if not accepted leave it. He will come on a free if he wants to come and we need him next season. Can’t be wasting money like that, we’ve got Vuskovic if needed.”
A fifth stated: “£70m?! With just one year left on his contract? Good player but he is not anywhere near that good. Maybe £40m at a push. You do not pay massive amounts for players in the last year of their deals. Even Kane went for only £85-95m.”
While one other Tottenham supporter added: “WE GOT F**KING VUSKOVIC????!!!!?! WHAT ARE WE DOING??? 70M FOR WHAT??? 1 YEAR ON CONTRACT? IDIOTIC BUSINESS.”
Spurs must weigh defensive spending as Jan Paul van Hecke talks continue
Spurs surely know they will have to be shrewd when doing business this summer, given the number of positions that need to be strengthened.
The Lilywhites are still in for Manchester City winger Savinho, and that signing, if completed, could cost about £60m, as Spurs Web previously reported.
There is also talk of a forward possibly being signed and even the addition of another wide forward. A midfielder could also be bought this summer.
However, the books could well be balanced if a few of their players are sold. Cristian Romero has been linked with a move to Spain, and should he depart for the reported £50-60m, that could help fund a Van Hecke deal.
The table below outlines Tottenham’s expected squad changes ahead of the summer transfer window, highlighting the players most likely to leave the club and the key areas Spurs are expected to strengthen before the start of the new season.
| Category | Name / Position | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Potential Departures | Cristian Romero | Very likely |
| Radu Dragusin | Very likely | |
| Luka Vuskovic (loan) | Likely | |
| Joao Palhinha | Likely | |
| Yves Bissouma | Contract expiring | |
| Richarlison | Likely | |
| Potential Reinforcements | Defence | Likely |
| Left and right wing | Likely | |
| Centre-forward | Slightly possible | |
| Centre-midfield | Slightly possible |
- READ MORE: How Jan Paul van Hecke feels about Tottenham transfer with Spurs and Brighton locked in talks