TheHardTackle.com

Jan Paul van Hecke comments on club future amid Tottenham links

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Jan Paul van Hecke comments on club future amid Tottenham links - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Jan Paul van Hecke has been linked with the move away from Brighton & Hove Albion during the summer transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to sign Jan Paul van Hecke, and they have had two offers for him rejected, with a third offer reportedly being prepared. Brighton & Hove Albion are demanding a premium for his signature, and it will be interesting to see if Tottenham is willing to pay up.

There have been rumours that the defender is keen on joining the London club, but he has now admitted he is focused on succeeding at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with his country and will sort out his future after the tournament. This is his first World Cup with the Netherlands, and the player is aiming to avoid any potential distractions.

He said during an interview via Sky Sports, “First of all, I just want to focus on the Dutch national team on Sunday. That is a very important match for us, for me, so that’s my focus until now. Of course, things are also happening and I know that myself too, but that’s not for now, that’s more after the World Cup. I will then see where I play.

“I have also said very clearly that I would like to have clarity for myself before the World Cup. And I have that too, but then for now, for myself, it’s just clear, I just want to play the World Cup as well as possible. That clarity will probably come after the World Cup when I make that step, then it’s clear to everyone.”

Cristian Romero is expected to leave the club this summer, and Tottenham will need to replace him. Signing the 26-year-old defender could be a wise decision. He has consistently shown his quality in the Premier League and has the ability to take the next step by joining a bigger club

Jan Paul van Hecke would be a superb addition

Tottenham need to improve defensively to bounce back strongly after a disappointing season. They finished 17th in the league table last season. A club of their stature should be doing a lot better. Signing the right players could help them get back on track and fight for trophies once again.

Roberto De Zerbi worked with van Hecke during his time as Brighton manager, and he knows all about him. The defender is well-suited to the Italian manager’s style as well, and he should be able to settle in quickly at Tottenham. The Dutch defender is calm and composed with the ball at his feet, and he will help them build from the back. His aerial prowess and recovery pace will also be crucial to De Zerbi’s pressing system.

Tottenham rival Aston Villa in Matias Soule chase

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham rival Aston Villa in Matias Soule chase - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Tottenham Hotspur will compete with Aston Villa in the race to sign 23-year-old Argentine international Matias Soule from AS Roma this summer.

According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Matias Soule is the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are seeking a new winger to reinforce their attacking options in the upcoming transfer window, and they have set their sights on the 23-year-old AS Roma winger.

Apart from Tottenham, Aston Villa will also look to sign the South American winger in the coming weeks, while the report by Calciomercato has claimed that Borussia Dortmund and Bournemouth are also vying for his signature. Meanwhile, AS Roma will demand around €35-40 million to part ways with Soule.

How has Matias Soule fared at AS Roma?

Matias Soule has established himself as one of the best young prospects in Serie A since joining AS Roma from Juventus in July 2024. The 23-year-old graduated from the youth division at the Turin-based club but could not become a regular for the first-team squad. However, joining AS Roma has turned things around for him.

The Argentine international was top-notch in the 2025/26 season, scoring seven goals and eight assists in 42 appearances across all competitions while playing his part in AS Roma’s top-four finish in Serie A. Meanwhile, Soule’s progress at the Italian club has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, and a move to the Premier League may be on the cards.

Where will Soule ply his trade next season?

Aston Villa’s interest in Matias Soule makes sense. The Villans are scouring the market for a wide attacker, as Jadon Sancho’s loan spell has ended. Additionally, Leon Bailey reportedly faces an uncertain future at Villa Park. With Unai Emery’s team over-dependent on Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins in the final third, they need more productivity from the flanks, making Soule an attractive target.

As for Tottenham Hotspur, the Lilywhites have yet to fill Son Heung-min’s void since the South Korean international moved to MLS last summer. So, with Wilson Odobert and Mohammed Kudus the only viable wide options in Roberto De Zerbi’s team, they need a new winger, with Soule an option worth considering.

Tottenham talks to sign Savinho set to progress quickly

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham talks to sign Savinho set to progress quickly - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Tottenham Hotspur are poised to step up pursuit of Manchester City winger Savinho, with talks over a move expected to gather pace in the coming days.

Savinho is keen on joining Tottenham Hotspur ahead of next season, and talks with Manchester City are expected to progress quickly, per a report by Football Insider.

The Brazilian winger, who joined Manchester City in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth €40 million, wanted to join Tottenham last summer, but Pep Guardiola blocked his exit. He had shown a lot of promise during his debut campaign, with 16 goal contributions. As a result, the Spanish manager was keen on having him around.

However, the youngster started just seven league games in the recently concluded campaign, and the arrival of Antoine Semenyo during the winter transfer window pushed him further down the pecking order. As a result, the Brazilian international is now ready to push for an exit.

Why does De Zerbi want Savinho?

The 22-year-old is determined to join Spurs, who have revived their interest in his services. Roberto De Zerbi is looking to add more quality on the flanks. Mohammed Kudus and Wilson Odobert are the only out-and-out wingers in his squad, and the Tottenham Hotspur head coach has identified winger depth as a priority.

The Italian tactician wants to bring in a forward who thrives in 1v1 situations, loves to take defenders, has the pace and can make a difference in the final third. Savinho is a perfect fit for his system, and since he has already proven himself in the English top flight, adjusting to life at Spurs won’t be a problem for him.

With the player keen on the move, per reports, personal terms are not expected to pose an obstacle. Both clubs are expected to hold talks in the near future, and those discussions are expected to progress quickly as all parties involved are determined to find a solution.

Jan Paul van Hecke told to take the leap with Tottenham move

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Jan Paul van Hecke told to take the leap with Tottenham move - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur in recent weeks.

Jan Paul van Hecke has done quite well in the Premier League, and it is no surprise that Tottenham are interested in him. They need to tighten up at the back, and signing the Netherlands international would be a wise decision.

Cristian Romero is expected to leave the club in the summer, and they will need to replace the club captain. The Brighton defender could be ideal for them. Meanwhile, van Hecke has been urged to join Tottenham this summer.

Dutch journalist Mike Verweij has claimed on Voetbal Primeur that the 25-year-old centre-back should look to join Tottenham because they are a much bigger club compared to Brighton & Hove Albion.

“Whether he will ever reach that level is the question,” Mike Verweij begins, referring to the level of Van Dijk and Aké. “But it is a very logical step. Spurs performed dramatically, finishing below Brighton, but Spurs is a much bigger club than Brighton. So that would really be a great step in the boy’s development, to be allowed to train there under Roberto De Zerbi. I think he should always do that.”

Spurs move could tempt van Hecke

Even though Tottenham finished 17th in the Premier League table this past season, there is no doubt that they are one of the biggest clubs in the country. The North London outfit could easily bounce back next season and fight for a place in Europe and do well in the competitions. Roberto De Zerbi has quality players at his disposal, and they have now brought in a manager who can get the best out of them.

De Zerbi worked with the 25-year-old defender during their time together at Brighton & Hove Albion, and he knows all about van Hecke. The opportunity to play under the Italian manager once again will be exciting for the Dutch defender. Meanwhile, the Seagulls will not want to let him move on easily, and they have already rejected two bids.

Tottenham reject Brighton & Hove Albion bid for Luka Vuskovic

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham reject Brighton & Hove Albion bid for Luka Vuskovic - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Brighton & Hove Albion have failed with their opening bid to sign 19-year-old Croatian wonderkid Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham Hotspur.

According to an update by Ben Jacobs, Brighton & Hove Albion offered £30 million to sign Luka Vuskovic in the upcoming transfer window. The Seagulls are keen on reinforcing their defensive unit by signing a centre-back in the coming weeks, and they have set their sights on the 19-year-old Tottenham Hotspur defensive sensation.

However, Ben Jacobs has revealed that Spurs are “not inclined to sell” the Croat ahead of the 2026/27 season and that they have slapped a price tag of £60 million on him. That leave Brighton in a spot of bother, and unless they double their offer, a deal will not materialise. Personal terms are understood not to be an issue, with Vuskovic reportedly having a verbal agreement with Brighton.

How has Luka Vuskovic fared since leaving his boyhood club

Luka Vuskovic is the latest promising prodigy from his homeland to rise in prominence. Born in Split, the Croat spent most of his formative years thus far in his hometown, passing through the youth division at Hajduk Split before graduating from the club’s academy. The 19-year-old has spent two seasons away from Tottenham after the North London club signed him from Hajduk Split.

The latest loan spell has been a success, as the Croatian wonderkid has made significant progress at the Bundesliga club due to regular involvement (over 2,500 minutes in 30 appearances with six goals and one assist) in the 2025/26 season. His exploits have also earned him a spot in Croatia’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What next for Vuskovic?

Widespread reports have linked Luka Vuskovic with several high-profile clubs, including Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. However, the opportunity to join Brighton & Hove Albion is more appealing for a young prospect like Vuskovic, as the Seagulls have a proven track record of grooming bright young prospects into world-class players since becoming a Premier League club.

Additionally, Fabian Hurzeler needs a new centre-back amid Jan Paul van Hecke’s reported links with Tottenham Hotspur. So, Brighton must bring in a long-term replacement this summer, and Vuskovic can even be an upgrade on the Dutchman in the coming years due to his ball-playing ability, goalscoring prospects, and recovery pace.

Tottenham leapfrog Chelsea, Liverpool in Joel Ordonez race

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham leapfrog Chelsea, Liverpool in Joel Ordonez race - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Tottenham Hotspur are leading the race for the signature of Chelsea and Liverpool defensive target Joel Ordonez.

Tottenham have leapfrogged Chelsea and Liverpool in the race for Ecuador international Joel Ordonez, according to a CaughtOffside report, with the 22-year-old focused on performing at the World Cup.

Spurs are front-runners, but Liverpool have serious interest, and Chelsea could enter the race if he is made available. While Club Brugge have been reluctant to sanction his departure, they are now prepared to cash in if they receive an offer in the region of €45 million.

Since joining Brugge in the summer of 2023, Ordonez has established himself as a key figure, excelling in 1v1 situations with strong game-reading and composure. He employs a front-footed defensive approach and has impressed with his consistent performances, attracting interest from multiple top clubs.

Defensive reinforcement priority for Liverpool

As per the report, multiple English clubs have scouted Ordonez this season. Liverpool are among the strongest suitors, and reports earlier suggested the Reds had cooled interest, but it seems they are now seriously considering a move.

With Ibrahima Konate leaving as a free agent, defensive reinforcement is a top priority. Ordonez could fill that void and help replace the ageing Virgil van Dijk in the long run.

Spurs pursue Ordonez as van Hecke alternative

Tottenham are believed to be leading the race at this stage. The North London club are prioritising defensive reinforcement under Roberto De Zerbi. While they have already signed Marcos Senesi, they are working hard to land Jan Paul van Hecke.

However, Brighton are playing hardball over his transfer fee; as a result, Spurs are looking at Ordonez as a quality alternative. Meanwhile, Chelsea are keeping a close eye on the situation and could enter the race if the player is available for a transfer.

The Blues suffered injuries at the back last season and seek more top-quality options. At 22, Ordonez aligns with Chelsea’s youth-focused project and could partner centrally with Levi Colwill.

Santiago Gimenez offered to Tottenham for summer transfer

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Santiago Gimenez offered to Tottenham for summer transfer - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Intermediaries have offered Tottenham Hotspur the opportunity to sign 25-year-old Mexican international Santiago Gimenez from AC Milan this summer.

According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Santiago Gimenez could move to the Premier League in the upcoming transfer window. The struggling AC Milan striker’s representatives have offered the player to Tottenham Hotspur after the North London club considered signing him earlier this year.

However, even if the Lilywhites respond favourably, they will not be alone in the battle for Gimenez’s signature, as he is also a target for Lazio. With the Resistencia native struggling to make his mark at San Siro, a summer departure is on the cards.

How has Santiago Gimenez fared at AC Milan?

Santiago Gimenez has seen his stock plummet since joining AC Milan from Feyenoord earlier this year. While the 25-year-old was among the world’s most prolific strikers in his spell in the Eredivisie, he has struggled to make his mark during his stint with AC Milan. Additionally, he has steadily fallen in the pecking order under Massimiliano Allegri.

The Mexican international managed only 1,037 minutes of game time across 18 appearances in all competitions in the 2025/26 season, chipping in with one goal and three assists. However, Gimenez’s stock in the market remains high, and a move to the Premier League may be on the cards in the summer transfer window.

Premier League adventure beckons?

Santiago Gimenez has been on Tottenham Hotspur’s wishlist for a long time. The North London giants remain in the market for a striker, as Randal Kolo Muani has returned to Paris Saint-Germain after an underwhelming loan stint at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the 2025/26 season.

Additionally, Dominic Solanke has struggled with fitness issues throughout his spell with the North London club. So, the Lilywhites have set their sights on several strikers, including Vangelis Pavlidis. However, pursuing Gimenez will not be a sensible decision, considering his struggles at AC Milan.

With Tottenham desperate to return to European football after battling to avoid relegation in the last two seasons, they need a world-class striker. However, it is unclear if the struggling Premier League giants are ready to entertain the offer to sign Gimenez from AC Milan in the coming weeks.

Tottenham set to demand over £60 million to sell Luka Vuskovic

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham set to demand over £60 million to sell Luka Vuskovic - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Tottenham Hotspur defender Luka Vuskovic was on loan at Hamburger SV this past season, and he was outstanding for the Bundesliga club.

Brighton & Hove Albion are hoping to sign Luka Vuskovic this summer, and they are currently locked in talks with Tottenham Hotspur over a deal. The Seagulls are looking to sign him for a fee of £30 million, but Tottenham value him at over £60 million, according to Sky Sports.

Meanwhile, Tottenham are hoping to sign Jan Paul Van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion, and recent reports have claimed that they have prepared a fresh bid to secure the Dutchman’s services. Perhaps, the two clubs can strike a deal that benefits both.

Selling Vuskovic would be a mistake

Vuskovic is highly rated across Europe, and he is expected to develop into a top-class player with coaching and experience. Selling him this summer would be a mistake from Tottenham. We have previously covered reports claiming Liverpool and Barcelona are keen on the player.

The 19-year-old has all the tools to develop into a world-class player in the coming years. Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from Tottenham, and they need to replace him properly. Apart from investing in an experienced defender like van Hecke, they should also keep their best young players.

Vuskovic did not look out of place in the Bundesliga last season, and there is no doubt he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League as well. If Brighton can get the deal done, it could prove to be a superb investment for them.

The 19-year-old has the attributes to become a superstar in the future. It appears that the young defender is open to joining the Seagulls, and he has already agreed on personal terms with them. He needs to join a club where he can play regularly. If the Croat is not valued at Tottenham, it would be ideal for him to move on.

The £60 million asking price is quite high for a talented young player like him, and Brighton will want to negotiate a more reasonable deal. Perhaps, including him in a deal for van Hecke would make more sense for both parties.

Aston Villa rival Tottenham in Anatoliy Trubin chase

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Aston Villa rival Tottenham in Anatoliy Trubin chase - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Aston Villa will compete with Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign 24-year-old Ukrainian international Anatoliy Trubin from Portuguese giants SL Benfica this summer.

According to a report by Portuguese outlet A Bola via Sport Witness, Anatoliy Trubin is the subject of interest from Aston Villa. The Villans are keen on bolstering their first-team squad by signing a goalkeeper in the coming months, and they have set their sights on the 24-year-old SL Benfica mainstay.

The A Bola report has revealed that Villa are “the club paying closest attention to the situation” at the Portuguese club. However, the West Midlands outfit will not be alone in the battle for Trubin’s signature, as he is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur for the upcoming transfer window.

Anatoliy Trubin and his time in Portugal so far

Anatoliy Trubin has established himself as one of the best players in the Primeira Liga since joining SL Benfica from Shakhtar Donetsk in a deal worth €11 million, including add-ons, in August 2023. Born in Donetsk, the 24-year-old spent his formative years in his homeland and rose in prominence at Shakhtar Donetsk before moving to Portugal nearly three years ago.

Trubin has made nearly 150 appearances for Benfica thus far while keep 59 clean sheets and conceding 144 goals. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian goalkeeper’s progress has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs. Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this summer.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Anatoliy Trubin makes sense. The Lilywhites are combing the market for a goalkeeper amid uncertainties surrounding Guglielmo Vicario’s long-term future. While recent reports have claimed that Inter Milan may not complete a summer move for the Italian international, he is expected to leave the North London club this summer. With Antonin Kinsky not being reliable between the sticks, Tottenham must seek a solution from the market.

As for Aston Villa, Emiliano Martinez faces an uncertain future at Villa Park amid his reported links with Juventus. While Marco Bizot has been a reliable deputy for the West Midlands club, they must sign a reliable long-term replacement for Martinez.

The A Bola report has revealed that the starting price for Trubin will be €20 million, though they would prefer to recoup close to €40 million from his departure. Aston Villa and Tottenham have the funds to afford a deal in that range. However, the Villans hold a significant advantage, as they can offer UEFA Champions League football, whereas Benfica and Tottenham cannot.

Tottenham prepare third bid to sign Jan Paul van Hecke

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham prepare third bid to sign Jan Paul van Hecke - TheHardTackle.com
Description

Tottenham Hotspur have prepared a third £55 million bid to sign Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke, hoping to seal a deal after two failed offers.

According to a report by Football Insider, Jan Paul van Hecke is the subject of active interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are eager to bolster their defensive unit by signing a centre-back in the upcoming transfer window, and they have set their sights on the 26-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion defender.

The report by Football Insider has revealed that the North London giants have prepared a third bid to sign the Dutchman after failing with offers worth £40 million and £50 million. The latest proposal will have a value of £55 million, with Tottenham increasingly confident of sealing a deal for van Hecke.

Jan Paul van Hecke and his progress in the Premier League so far

Jan Paul van Hecke has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dependable centre-backs since joining Brighton & Hove Albion from NAC Breda in September 2020. While the 26-year-old had to bide his time before becoming a first-choice starter for the Seagulls, he has become Lewis Dunk’s regular central defensive partner.

The Dutch defender was impressive in the 2025/26 season, contributing three goals and three assists across 40 appearances. Beyond attacking contributions, van Hecke has been consistent out of possession, helping Brighton secure a top-eight finish in the Premier League and qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League. Meanwhile, his progress has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur.

Will Tottenham sign van Hecke this summer?

Jan Paul van Hecke has been on Tottenham Hotspur’s wishlist for a long time. The continued interest makes tactical and logical sense, as the Lilywhites are concerned about the long-term futures of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven. Romero, in particular, is expected to leave, with recent reports suggesting Tottenham may accept bids for him in the coming weeks.

Additionally, Radu Dragusin has become increasingly frustrated with his lack of game time with the first team, and widespread reports have suggested that he will force a summer exit. So, Tottenham must pursue a centre-back who can be a long-term central defensive solution, with van Hecke emerging as a viable target due to his commanding presence and progressive passing ability.