“TRANSFER BATTLE ERUPTS! TOTTENHAM AND LIVERPOOL GO HEAD-TO-HEAD FOR BRIGHTON’S MAIN MAN”
Former Premier League scout Jonathan Mitchell has revealed that Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool have been keeping a close watch on Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke following his rapid rise to prominence over the past two seasons.
Van Hecke, who was crowned Brighton’s Player of the Season last campaign, has quietly developed into one of the most reliable and underrated central defenders in the Premier League. His assured presence at the back, combined with top-level reading of the game and growing leadership qualities, has made him a key figure in Roberto De Zerbi’s side and an increasingly attractive transfer option for top-six clubs.
Tottenham were already admirers during the summer transfer window, placing Van Hecke on a carefully-compiled shortlist of central defensive targets. Although Spurs ultimately moved in other directions and no official bid materialised, the admiration never disappeared. Liverpool, meanwhile, are understood to have stepped up their interest over the past few months as they continue to plan long-term defensive succession around Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.
Mitchell explained that both clubs have been tracking Van Hecke’s progress closely rather than reacting impulsively to one standout season. “He’s been evolving steadily for two years now,” he said. “What top clubs look for is consistency — and Van Hecke has delivered that week after week.”
And consistency is certainly the word that best describes the Dutchman.
Having broken into the Brighton first team after loan spells and gradual development, Van Hecke has now become a mainstay at the Amex Stadium. This season alone he has started all but two of Brighton’s 19 Premier League matches, anchoring a defence that has undergone both tactical and personnel changes under De Zerbi. His ability to adapt, organise and remain composed under pressure has impressed scouts across Europe.
It is not just his defending that stands out. Van Hecke has demonstrated excellent distribution from the back — a quality increasingly crucial to modern Premier League systems. Comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, he frequently steps into midfield areas to break opposition lines with his passing. This ball-playing ability makes him a natural fit for both Ange Postecoglou’s possession-based Spurs side and Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool, who place strong emphasis on structured build-up play.
In addition to his defensive duties, Van Hecke has added a new string to his bow — goals. The Netherlands international has already scored three times this season, showing real threat from set-pieces. His aerial presence, timing and movement in the box have turned him into a genuine attacking weapon, giving Brighton an extra outlet in tight games.
Such qualities explain why he was widely regarded as one of the most sought-after defensive targets in the summer. Yet despite heavy interest from Spurs and other Premier League sides, no concrete bid arrived. Brighton, therefore, retained the centre-back — a decision that now looks increasingly valuable as his reputation continues to grow.
Within the Brighton camp, Van Hecke is known for his professionalism and steady temperament. He rarely makes headlines off the pitch, preferring instead to focus on his development and performances. That calm demeanour transfers onto the field, where he remains composed even in the most high-pressure situations.
His rise has not gone unnoticed at international level either. The defender has been part of the Netherlands national setup, further underlining the progress he has made in a relatively short time.
With January and the following summer windows ahead, the question naturally turns to what happens next. Brighton have never been a club afraid to sell — but only at the right price and at the right time. And with Van Hecke tied down and highly valued internally, it would take a significant offer to tempt the Seagulls into negotiations.
Tottenham’s need for defensive depth remains real, particularly given injuries and their desire to build long-term stability at the back. Liverpool, meanwhile, may soon look to refresh their defensive options as several senior players approach new contract cycles.
However, for now, Van Hecke remains fully committed to Brighton’s ambitions this season. The club continue to challenge in the Premier League and compete in Europe, and the Dutchman’s performances have been crucial in maintaining that upward trajectory.
What is certain is that the 24-year-old is no longer flying under the radar. His combination of defensive intelligence, technical ability and mental composure has placed him firmly on the radar of some of England’s biggest clubs. Whether a transfer battle emerges remains to be seen — but interest in Jan Paul van Hecke is only heading in one direction.
Right to the top.
