Tottenham submit bid for Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke

Tottenham Hotspur have made a formal bid to Brighton & Hove Albion for defender Jan Paul van Hecke. The move comes as Spurs aim to strengthen their defense after recently avoiding relegation and following the departure of star center-back Cristian Romero. Van Hecke, familiar with manager Roberto De Zerbi's system from their time together at Brighton, performed over the past season, helping solidify Brighton's defense. Brighton has rejected Tottenham's opening offer, but discussions are expected to continue, with Van Hecke's contract expiring next year.

• 1:41 PMYahoo Sports — Brighton expect second Spurs bid for Van Hecke
• 1:41 PMBBC Sport — Brighton expect second Spurs bid for Van Hecke
• 9:26 AMYahoo Sports — Tottenham’s opening bid for Jan Paul van Hecke rejected as Brighton resist raid
• 7:40 AMYahoo Sports — Spurs’ opening bid for Jan Paul van Hecke rejected by Brighton as De Zerbi targets Dutch defender
• 7:25 AMYahoo Sports — Tottenham Hotspur table offer to sign Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke