Tottenham plot scouting mission with ‘incredible’ defender expected to leave his club

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Tottenham Hotspur will be keeping a close eye on one Premier League defender this season.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank already boasts a strong central defence, possessing both Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.

However, since arriving at Tottenham from Wolfsburg in 2023, the latter has picked up several injuries. As for the former, at one stage, it did look like Spurs could lose him.

The 27-year-old recently signed a new contract at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, though, and is set to remain there until 2029.

Tottenham to assess Jan Paul van Hecke‘s performances

One player who was linked with a switch to north London during the summer was Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke.

Van Hecke never got a transfer and remained at the Amex Stadium, but it looks like the 25-year-old could still get a move to Tottenham in the near future.

According to GiveMeSport, Van Hecke remains on the Europa League winners’ radar and they are planning to assess his performances over the course of the coming months ahead of the January transfer window.

The same outlet also claims that there is an expectation that Van Hecke will leave Brighton in the new year in a boost to Spurs.

Last season, Van Hecke made 34 appearances in the Premier League, showing his importance to Brighton.

However, the Seagulls have shown in recent years that they will sell at the right price, allowing Joao Pedro to join Spurs’ London rivals Chelsea in the summer.

Tottenham face competition from two Premier League rivals for Jan Paul van Hecke‘s signature

Unfortunately for Tottenham, they are unlikely to get a free run at Van Hecke, with two English sides also thought to be interested in the Netherlands international.

GiveMeSport’s report claims that Liverpool and Newcastle United could challenge Frank’s side for Van Hecke’s signature.

It would not be too much of a surprise, as Van Hecke has shown his quality in the Premier League since arriving at Brighton.

When former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi spoke about Van Hecke before one game in 2023, he described his personality and leadership skills as “incredible” (via Brighton’s official club website).