Brighton expect Tottenham to return with a second bid for Jan Paul van Hecke after rejecting an opening £70m offer.
The 25‑year‑old Dutch defender, part of the World Cup squad, has one year left on his contract. Spurs boss Roberto de Zerbi wants to reunite with him after their time together at Brighton.
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Van Hecke joined from NAC Breda in 2020, later making 131 appearances and playing more Premier League minutes last season than any other Brighton outfield player.
Chief executive Paul Barber is handling transfers following Jason Ayto’s exit, with Brighton known for tough negotiations after big‑money sales of Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella and Joao Pedro.
