Tottenham see second Jan Paul van Hecke bid rejected by Brighton

Tottenham Hotspur have suffered another setback in their pursuit of Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke after seeing a second offer rejected by the Seagulls.

Spurs are determined to strengthen their defence this summer and have identified the Dutch international as a key target amid uncertainty surrounding Cristian Romero's future. However, Brighton remain firm in their valuation and have already turned down two approaches from the North London club.

With rival interest also emerging from elsewhere in the Premier League, Tottenham may face an increasingly difficult battle to secure the 25-year-old's signature.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has publicly confirmed that Tottenham have had two bids rejected for Van Hecke, while also revealing that multiple clubs are pursuing the defender.

The centre-back is entering the final year of his current contract, a situation that has inevitably attracted attention across the market.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Barber acknowledged the growing interest but insisted Brighton will only sanction a sale if the terms are right for both the club and the player.

Reports suggest Tottenham's opening offer was worth around £40m, while Brighton are believed to value the defender closer to £70m. The significant gap between those figures explains why negotiations have yet to produce an agreement.

Despite the rejections, Tottenham are expected to return with an improved proposal.

Brighton's stance reflects their broader strategy under Fabian Hurzeler.

The club secured European qualification once again and are eager to build on consecutive eighth-place Premier League finishes. Retaining important first-team players remains a central part of those ambitions.

Barber stressed the importance of balancing player trading with maintaining a competitive squad capable of competing domestically and in Europe.

Having followed Brighton's recruitment model closely over recent seasons, the club have consistently demonstrated a willingness to sell high-value assets, but only when they believe the timing and financial package are correct.

That position appears unchanged regarding Van Hecke.

The Dutch defender has developed into one of the Premier League's most reliable centre-backs during his time at Brighton.

Strong in possession, composed under pressure and capable of defending aggressively in one-versus-one situations, Van Hecke possesses many of the attributes Tottenham are looking for as they reshape their defence.

His experience playing under Roberto De Zerbi is another factor that appeals to those around the club.

Former Tottenham midfielder Sandro recently described Van Hecke as the ideal fit for the style of football Spurs want to play.

The Brazilian highlighted the defender's maturity and tactical understanding, suggesting he is already prepared to perform at the highest level.

Tottenham are not the only club keeping tabs on the Brighton star.

Liverpool and Newcastle United have both been linked with Van Hecke in recent weeks, increasing the likelihood of a competitive transfer battle should Brighton eventually soften their position.

With just one year remaining on his contract, Brighton must also consider whether this summer represents their best opportunity to maximise his value.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions regarding the defender's destination, particularly while Brighton continue to reject offers.

Tottenham are likely to continue negotiations in the coming weeks as they look to bridge the sizeable gap between their valuation and Brighton's asking price. Whether the club are prepared to move significantly closer to £70m could determine how realistic a deal becomes.

Brighton remain under no immediate pressure to sell, but the contract situation means discussions are unlikely to disappear. If rival clubs become more active, the transfer race could intensify quickly before pre-season preparations begin.

Should Tottenham meet Brighton's valuation for Jan Paul van Hecke, or are there better defensive options available this summer?