Transfer Rumour Unconfirmed · Early speculationCaughtOffsideUnverified source· 7 Aug 2026
De Zerbi reveals message that convinced Van Hecke to join Spurs
Tottenham's new signing was persuaded by a personal message from his former boss.
J. van Hecke
player
Player
Jan Paul van Hecke
From
Brighton
To
Tottenham Hotspur
What happened. Roberto De Zerbi has revealed that he sent a message to Jan Paul van Hecke urging him to join Tottenham Hotspur during the summer transfer window. The defender has since signed for Spurs.
- De Zerbi contacted Van Hecke after Brighton's match against Everton.
- The message was a key factor in convincing the defender to move.
- Van Hecke joined Tottenham earlier this summer.
“I sent a message”
— Roberto De Zerbi
De Zerbi's influence continues to shape transfers even after leaving Brighton.
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