Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on another summer transfer signing
Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke has reportedly 'made his mind up' and is eager to join Tottenham Hotspur this summer following two rejected bids. Dutch publication VI News suggests the Dutch international is enthusiastic about linking up again with Roberto De Zerbi in north London, despite 'two bids' being turned down.
The report indicates Spurs are facing interest from Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle United, but the Lilywhites appear favourites to secure his signature, provided the two clubs can reach an understanding. According to the outlet, Van Hecke was impressed by discussions with his previous Brighton manager, De Zerbi, and agreeing personal terms with Spurs would be 'a piece of cake.'
It further states that Spurs are working to finalise the transfer to allow the defender to concentrate on the World Cup this summer.
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Should Spurs manage to complete a deal ahead of the World Cup, Van Hecke would become their third summer acquisition after securing former Liverpool defender Andy Robertson and ex-Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi.
The latter has not yet been officially confirmed, but the Argentinian defender is widely anticipated to be donning Spurs colours next season. Reports claim Senesi underwent his medical in north London on Saturday and put pen to paper on a four-year contract before departing on holiday.
Senesi could shortly be heading to the World Cup as a late call-up for Leonardo Balerdi, who picked up an injury prior to the tournament. The defender is amongst the names being suggested to link up with Lionel Scaloni's squad in the United States, alongside Marcos Acuna, Nicolas Capaldo, Agustin Giay, Kevin Mac Allister and Martinez Quarta.
His exclusion from the initial squad raised eyebrows following a strong season for Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth. Whether a World Cup call-up would affect any potential switch to Spurs remains uncertain, but if reports are accurate, the transfer appears largely a done deal.
De Zerbi has wasted no time in bolstering his options in defence as the club look to kick on and avoid a repeat of the relegation battle they found themselves in this year.
Signing experienced leaders like Robertson is a major step in the right direction and explaining that signing, the Spurs boss said: "Andy is someone I've admired for a number of years and he will bring outstanding technical qualities, experience, leadership and mentality to our team.
"He is a proven winner at the highest level over a long period and is someone who can be a big player for us, both on and off the pitch. I can't wait to start working with him and seeing the positive impact he will have on everyone around him."
Spurs sporting director, Johan Lange, said: "We are delighted to welcome Andy to the club. First and foremost, he is an outstanding left-back - one of the best of all time in the Premier League, and someone who will improve our squad.
"In addition, his quality, character and leadership have been evident throughout a career in which he has regularly competed for - and won - major honours. Andy's professionalism and commitment will also be invaluable to the development of our squad, and he shares our ambition and determination to bring success back to the Club.
"We are excited for Andy's new chapter with us and look forward to having him here after the World Cup."