Tottenham Hotspur have signed Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion in a £52m transfer.
Van Hecke’s move to North London sees him reunite with ex Brighton boss, Roberto De Zerbi, who took charge of Spurs in April and guided them to safety on the final day of the Premier League season.
In his first interview as a Tottenham player after he signed a long-term contract, Van Hecke spoke of his happiness to make the move and reunite with De Zerbi, whilst also linking up with fellow Dutch international – Micky van de Ven.
“It’s a huge honour to become a Spurs player and when you join such a big club, it’s a dream come true.
“I already have a really strong connection with the Head Coach, who I’m looking forward to working with again. Micky has also told me some great things about the Club, so I can’t wait to get started.
“I’ve been at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as an opposition player and now I’m looking forward to walking out there in front of our fans wearing the Spurs shirt. That will be a special moment.”
De Zerbi added that he can’t wait to reunite with Van Hecke upon his return from the World Cup, and believes that he will be a key asset in his tactical plans to push Spurs forward.
“Jan Paul is someone I know very well from our time together at Brighton, and I’m delighted to be working with him again.
“He is a strong, intelligent centre-back who is brave in possession and plays with personality. Those are important qualities for the way I want our team to set-up.
“Off the pitch he is mature, a leader and has a hunger to learn and improve every day.
“Jan Paul has made great progress over the past few years and I believe he can develop even further here at Tottenham Hotspur.”
De Zerbi’s successor at Brighton, Fabian Hurzeler meanwhile has praised Van Hecke for his professionalism and impact at the AMEX Stadium.
“JP has been a pleasure to work with during our two years together and I wish him well in this move to Tottenham.
“He’s been a huge influence on and off the pitch, endearing himself to both fans and his teammates with his commitment. I have no doubt he will continue to be a success.”
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