Tottenham are hoping to bolster their defence in the upcoming transfer window.
Tottenham are hoping to retain their top-flight status in the coming weeks as they aim to avoid relegation this season. The Lilywhites are currently two points behind 17th-placed West Ham United after going winless in their last 14 Premier League matches. The North Londoners have not secured a single league victory since the turn of the year, raising serious doubts about their chances of survival under Roberto de Zerbi.
It is crucial for Spurs to return to winning ways as soon as possible, starting with their clash against Wolves at the Molineux Stadium this weekend. They must rediscover positive momentum if they are to continue their long-term project under De Zerbi. The Italian tactician will also need to ensure that his players deliver strong performances and show full commitment in their bid to secure the club’s top-flight status in the coming weeks.
Failure to avoid relegation could result in Spurs losing several key players at reduced prices in the upcoming transfer window. Recent reports suggest that Cristian Romero is considering an early exit from N17 and could look to join Premier League rivals Manchester United if the Lilywhites are relegated this season. A move to Old Trafford may seem unlikely at this stage, but it could become a realistic possibility if the North Londoners fail to turn their form around.
Tottenham would need to splash the cash on Jan Paul van Hecke
It is therefore no surprise that Tottenham are already exploring potential replacements for Cristian Romero ahead of the summer window. Recent reports have linked the Lilywhites with Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke. Roberto de Zerbi is believed to be a strong admirer of the player, and his name has reportedly been discussed by senior figures at N17. This is not the first time the Dutchman has been linked with a move to Hotspur Way, and with his contract running until 2027, Brighton could consider selling him this summer rather than risk losing him for free in the future.
However, John Wenham does not believe Tottenham will be able to secure the 25-year-old’s signature. The Lilywhite Rose owner has suggested that Liverpool could instead make a move for Van Hecke during the upcoming transfer window. Speaking on Tottenham News, Wenham said,
“Van Hecke, the first time I have watched him up close for Brighton, my God, what a good player he is. I could see him talking about maybe Liverpool, getting a Van Dijk replacement at some point, Van Hecke is extremely good, and until you watch him up close and personal in the match, you don’t realise that he’s so authoritative. I noticed Fabrizio Romano tweeted that he’s recently switched agencies as well, which is normally, an indication that a player is sort of lining up either a new contract or a summer move away.”
The Lilywhite Rose owner added,
“For Brighton, it would be a huge loss, but someone in the Premier League is going to pick up an outstanding centre back there, I don’t think it will be Tottenham because we’ve heard they are advancing in talks for Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth on a free transfer. Van Hecke is very, very good, and for me looked, all the part of a 60-million-pound centre back, maybe more.”
John Wenham was quick to praise Jan Paul van Hecke’s commanding display against Spurs last weekend. He believes the Dutchman could be an ideal long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool, particularly following his recent change of agents, which may indicate a potential summer move. Wenham also suggests that Spurs are unlikely to pursue the 25-year-old, who could command a fee of around £60m, as they are reportedly close to reaching an agreement for Marcos Senesi.
That said, Spurs would benefit from having a player like Jan Paul van Hecke in defence. The centre-back reads the game well and is highly comfortable in possession. He is press-resistant and possesses a strong aerial presence due to his physical attributes. Even against Chelsea yesterday, he put in a massive shift, as he was rated 8/10 in Brighton’s 3-0 win against the Blues. Having previously worked under Roberto de Zerbi at Brighton, the 25-year-old understands the tactical demands required both in and out of possession. As such, he would represent a solid addition if the North Londoners manage to secure his signature in the coming months.