Tottenham Hotspur are preparing for a massive rebuild this summer after narrowly avoiding relegation from the Premier League last season.
Spurs finished 17th in the table and survived by only two points after securing a tense 1-0 victory against Everton on the final day of the campaign.
It was a shocking season for a club that entered the year with momentum after winning the UEFA Europa League in 2024/25.
However, things quickly collapsed for the north London side. Tottenham lost the UEFA Super Cup to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
Their domestic form also continued to decline under Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor before Roberto De Zerbi arrived to steady the situation.
Meanwhile, injuries caused major problems throughout the season. Spurs also suffered disappointing exits from both the FA Cup and Champions League.
Now, De Zerbi is preparing for a busy transfer window as Tottenham attempt to rebuild their squad ahead of next season.
However, there remains serious uncertainty around several defenders at the club. Cristian Romero continues to attract interest from both Real Madrid and Barcelona.
At the same time, Micky van de Ven has emerged as a target for Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United despite having a long-term contract. Thus, Spurs are now looking for a defender.
According to The Athletic, Tottenham Hotspur submitted an opening bid for Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke. However, Brighton rejected the proposal as it fell below their valuation.
Talks between the two clubs are reportedly continuing as Spurs attempt to reach an agreement for the Dutch international.
Van Hecke already shares a strong relationship with Roberto De Zerbi from their time together at Brighton.
The defender made 50 appearances under the Italian manager during his spell with the Seagulls. The 25-year-old joined Brighton from NAC Breda in 2020 for just £1.7 million.
However, Brighton are now expected to demand at least £50 million if they decide to sell him this summer.
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