Spurs’ long-term thinking is already well underway, with plans for big investment that can raise the levels of ambition and expectation.
Sources continue to insist an attacker is a priority in the window - with Antoine Semenyo a dream signing - but over the past couple of months, they have begun to think about the goalkeeping department, too.
There is growing uncertainty around Guglielmo Vicario’s position. The club had already been considering a new option to add competition but since then the Tottenham No.1 has made costly errors, and his future is not guaranteed.
There has been speculation that he could move to Italy, with both Inter and AC Milan mentioned as potential landing spots.
And sources have confirmed Verbruggen is becoming one of the top candidates on Spurs’ shortlist if they replace him.
The 23-year-old has developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable shot-stoppers. Internally, he is viewed as a goalkeeper capable of reaching a world-class level.
Manchester City studied him closely last summer, while Chelsea have also tracked him.
With a contract running until 2028, Brighton are aware that next summer, when Verbruggen will have two years remaining, could represent the moment to secure maximum value - even though they would love to keep him.
Sources admit such a deal would be extremely difficult for Tottenham to carry out in January.
Tottenham’s Brighton focus extends beyond the goalkeeper position as centre-back Van Hecke has also been identified as a serious option, as Spurs explore defensive reinforcements.
Liverpool have previously shown interest, as they look to refresh their back line, but Tottenham are understood to be a determined suitor.
Van Hecke’s consistency has been impossible to ignore. He has not missed a single minute of Brighton’s Premier League campaign this season and is regarded internally as a future leader.
Brighton are increasingly accustomed to this type of attention, and while the growing interest is a concern, the club’s track record suggests they will either hold firm or command a premium fee when the time is right.
For Tottenham, the interest in Verbruggen and Van Hecke underlines their intent to be bold and focused on proven players in the market.
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