£52m Van Hecke on 'really strong connection' with De Zerbi

[Getty Images] Jan Paul van Hecke has described becoming a Tottenham player as "a huge honour", as his £52m move from Brighton was confirmed on Thursday. Spurs say the 26-year-old Netherlands centre-back, who played under Roberto de Zerbi at the Seagulls, has signed a long-term contract. "When you join such a big club, it's a dream come true," he told the club's official website. "I already have a really strong connection with the head coach, who I'm looking forward to working with again. Micky van de Ven has also told me some great things about the club, so I can't wait to get started. "I've been at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as an opposition player and now I'm looking forward to walking out there in front of our fans wearing the Spurs shirt. That will be a special moment." De Zerbi said: "He is a strong, intelligent centre-back who is brave in possession and plays with personality. Those are important qualities for the way I want our team to set up. "Off the pitch, he is mature, a leader and has a hunger to learn and improve every day." Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange said the club had been tracking Van Hecke "for a number of years". "As we continue to build our squad, it is important to bring in players who can contribute immediately while also being part of our long-term vision," he added. Van Hecke made 131 appearances for Brighton and started 36 out of 38 Premier League games for Fabian Hurzeler's side last season as they finished eighth and qualified for the Conference League.