Tottenham Hotspur have officially completed the signing of Dutch international defender Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal worth a reported £52 million.
The 26-year-old centre-back has signed a long-term contract at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, becoming one of Spurs’ headline additions during the 2026 summer transfer window.
Van Hecke reunites with head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who helped shape his development during their time together at Brighton.
The defender described the move as “a dream come true” and said he was excited to work with De Zerbi once again.
Speaking after the announcement, De Zerbi praised Van Hecke’s qualities, describing him as a strong, intelligent defender who is comfortable in possession and perfectly suited to Tottenham’s style of play.
Van Hecke leaves Brighton after establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable central defenders and a regular in the Netherlands national team.
Brighton are also understood to have secured a 20% sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
The signing represents a major statement of intent from Tottenham as they continue strengthening their squad ahead of the new Premier League season, with Van Hecke expected to play a key role in the heart of the defence.