With Cristian Romero expected to depart Tottenham Hotspur this summer, the club are taking a proactive stance in trying to replace him.
It's clear that Marcos Senesi, who's poised to join the club on a four-year deal as a free agent from Bournemouth, will offer Micky van de Ven potential respite on the left side of Roberto De Zerbi's defence. Senesi is far from an outstanding athlele, but he's an excellent passer with sound fundamentals.
It's a signing I don't think we can have too many complaints about.
However, he's not the only centre-back Spurs will have to sign this summer. While questions remain over Luka Vušković's future, Romero's impending exit leaves a huge void to fill. Kevin Danso has proved a very likeable and able deputy in north London, but De Zerbi won't solely be relying upon the Austrian next season and beyond.
We're targeting a defender with whom De Zerbi is familiar.
Tottenham have first bid for Jan Paul van Hecke rejected
Jan Paul van Hecke rose to Premier League prominence when De Zerbi was at the helm of Brighton & Hove Albion. He's since blossomed into a Dutch international who's heading to his first World Cup this summer.
Like most Dutchmen, Van Hecke is self-assured and confident in his abilities. His personality impressed De Zerbi when the pair worked together, and now the Italian wants to bring the 25-year-old to N17.
According to The Athletic, Spurs have had their opening proposal for Van Hecke rejected by Brighton, falling short of the Seagulls' valuation. Tony Bloom will not let his players walk for less than he perceives them to be worth, but the Dutchman's contract situation leaves him with little leverage. Van Hecke's contract expires next summer.
It's unclear how much Brighton want for the Dutchman, with talks ongoing.
As I've previously noted, I think Romero needs a strong World Cup to reignite transfer interest. We know he can be a superb defender, one of the best around, but his stock has slumped over the past 12 months. 2025/26 was his worst season in Tottenham colours.
There's previously been intrigue from La Liga, with Atlético Madrid strongly considering a move last summer. However, their interest has cooled, Barcelona will likely be priced out, and Real Madrid are signing Ibrahima Konaté.
Right now, the Romero market isn't hot. Still, there's an expectation that he's already played his last game in Lilywhite, with Van Hecke earmarked as his replacement.
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