Tottenham now likely to move for Ndicka after sealing Van Hecke transfer

Tottenham Hotspur have identified “one of the very best central defenders in Europe” as a top target, and he could be in line to join after Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke.

The latest on Tottenham’s Van Hecke pursuit

Tottenham have already had two offers for Van Hecke turned down by Brighton, but journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed they remain confident they will be able to get a deal for the Dutch defender over the line.

Spurs are attempting to reunite the 25-year-old with former manager Roberto De Zerbi, and the two seemingly have a very strong relationship, with Van Hecke writing on social media after the Italian left Brighton: “Gaffer thank you very much! You changed my life! I’m really thankful for what you did for me. I’m really upset you are leaving.”

The 11-cap Netherlands international could be the second centre-back addition of the summer, following Marcos Senesi’s arrival on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth, but the north Londoners remain keen on bringing in another defender.

Tottenham planning move for one of Europe’s “best” centre-backs

According to a report from Sports Boom, Tottenham are now likely to make a move for AS Roma star Evan Ndickawho pockets £85,000-a-weekand they have identified him as one of their top targets.

Spurs are eager to get another centre-back through the door, given that Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven may leave this summer, but Marseille, Inter Milan and Newcastle United could rival them for Ndicka’s signature.

It would be disappointing if De Zerbi’s side were to miss out though, as the manager wants to sign another centre-back who is composed in possession, and able to play a high line, with the 26-year-old said to meet the criteria.

European football journalist Andy Brassell has suggested the Roma star is already one of the continent’s best centre-backs, and could get even better, saying: “I think he’s one of the very best central defenders in Europe and I don’t think he’s ever really given credit for it.

“If I was a Premier League club, I would be all over Roma for Evan Ndicka. I think he’s already a great defender and I think he’ll get even better.

The Paris-born defender averaged 7.5 defensive contributions per 90 in the Serie A last season, the second-highest number in the Roma squad, while he also bagged three goals in 31 appearances.

With Radu Dragusin also potentially in line to leave this summer, it could be important for De Zerbi to make a plethora of additions at centre-back, and Ndicka has shown he could be a solid signing.

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