Tottenham are set to face competition from Newcastle United for the signing of a highly-rated Premier League defender.
Recruitment strategy and planning at Tottenham Hotspur has become conditional, dictated by Premier League position and the looming threat of relegation. Under Roberto De Zerbi, the club are planning for multiple scenarios as the campaign reaches its end.
Recent reports suggest Tottenham have taken big strides towards landing Marcos Senesi on a free transfer from Bournemouth. Over the last couple of weeks, the North London outfit have been in close contact with Senesi’s representatives regarding a summer move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium amid the uncertain futures of centre-back duo, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
Romero and Van de Ven have been linked with an exit from the club. Ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, Romero continues to draw interest from Spanish club Atletico Madrid. Regardless of Tottenham’s status at the end of the season, the Argentine is expected to leave the club. Van de Ven, meanwhile, has lately emerged as a target for Manchester United.
Newcastle United eye move for Tottenham-linked Brighton and Hove Albion star
In the wake of Romero and Van de Ven’s potential departures, Spurs also want to sign Brighton and Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke.
Jan Paul van Hecke has emerged as one of Brighton’s standout players in the last couple of seasons. Not only has he impressed with his technical and aerial ability, but the lanky Dutchman has also led the Seagulls’ backline very well. This has unsurprisingly caught the attention of several clubs, including Spurs.
De Zerbi wants to reunite with Van Hecke in the summer, having coached him at Brighton. However, it won’t be straightforward for Tottenham. This is because, according to an exclusive report from Football Insider, Newcastle United are keeping a close eye on the Netherlands centre-back. They have joined the transfer race to sign the Brighton man, who is set to enter the final year of his contract.
Jan Paul van Hecke enjoying an impressive season
Van Hecke is enjoying another impressive campaign at the Amex Stadium. The 25-year-old has helped keep eight clean sheets and contributed three goals and as many assists in 32 league appearances.
The Dutchman has caught the eye of Tottenham and Newcastle United with his reading of the game, impressive tackling, aerial ability, progressive passing and leadership skills. Spurs want a long-term replacement for Romero, and Van Hecke fits the bill. Newcastle, on the other hand, are eyeing a move for Van Hecke following their underwhelming performances at the back.
The report adds Brighton want to tie their dominant defender down to a new contract as he prepares to enter the final year of his deal. However, if they fail to agree on fresh terms, the south coast side will sell him. With Newcastle entering the fray, De Zerbi must use his Brighton connections to tempt Van Hecke to Tottenham. A move to N17 would only be possible if the Italian tactician manages to keep our club in the top flight.