Tottenham are very busy in the early stages of the summer transfer window and plan to make a new bid for a player that Roberto De Zerbi personally admires, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Spurs wasted no time in signing new contracts after the manager kept the team in the Premier League last season, signing experienced top-flight defenders Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free contracts.
Robertson led Scotland to a 1-0 win over Haiti in their first World Cup match on Saturday night, while Senesi is part of Argentina’s squad who begin their title defense against Algeria later on Tuesday night.
Spurs conceded 57 goals in the league last season, the most of any remaining team in the division, so it’s no surprise that strengthening their defense will be a top priority this summer, with further changes likely to be made.
Indeed, with Cristian Romero’s future still in doubt and potential departures looming over the futures of Micky van de Ven and Jed Spence, Brighton are currently making a £30m bid for Croatian defender Luka Vuskovic.
The 19-year-old, regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders, spent last season on loan at Bundesliga side Hamburg, but is yet to make a first-team appearance for Spurs since joining from Hajduk Split in 2023.
He has been included in coach Zlatko Dalic’s 26-man World Cup squad and could feature in next week’s opening match against England.
Tottenham reveal Luka Vuskovic’s price tag, Brighton talks underway and exit wanted
The Spurs aren’t going to let him go easily.
Spurs are in talks with Brighton over the sale of fellow central defender Jan Paul van Hecke, with two bids so far rejected, but Romano has given an update on the club’s plans to transform their backline.
Tottenham in talks to sign defender for £70m
According to Romano, Spurs are actively negotiating with Brighton after two bids for Van Hekke were rejected.
The reporter claims in his latest Youtube video that the north Londoners’ bosses have not given up on their pursuit and are negotiating new and improved terms, with recent reports suggesting Brighton are demanding £70m for their star player.
Romano also admitted that the 26-year-old Dutch star is keen on a move, possibly due to his links with De Zerbi.
The Tottenham manager has repeatedly praised the centre-back during his time at Brighton, highlighting his “incredible” attitude and leadership.
“It’s rare to have one young player with that much personality.”
Van Hecke started 36 of the Seagulls’ 38 Premier League games last season, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
Van Hecke Premier League Statistics 25/26
3.2 aerial wins per match
1.5 tackles per game
1.3 interceptions per game
0.8 fouls per game
5.3 clears per game
87.2% pass rate
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