Now head coach Roberto De Zerbi is looking forward to working with the man who was part of his Albion team for a little short of two seasons.
Van Hecke will link up again with his former boss when he reports for pre-season at Tottenham Hotspur this summer.
Tottenham are said to be keen on a talented young midfielder as they look to repeat the success they have already had with the signing of Archie Gray. Spurs are fully focused on improving their squad this summer as they look to become European qualification contenders next season.
Tottenham confirmed the signing of Brighton central defender Jan Paul Van Hecke on Thursday evening, signing the Netherlands international on a "long-term" contract with the North London club.
The Netherlands international, 26, has signed a long-term contract and will reunite with old boss Roberto de Zerbi in North London.
He is Spurs' third signing of the summer after the free acquisitions of left-back Andy Robertson and centre-back Marcos Senesi.
Tottenham Hotspur have completed their third transfer of the summer with the arrival from Brighton of the Netherlands centre-back
Tottenham have sealed the transfer of Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton as Roberto De Zerbi continues to rebuild his defence.
Tottenham have completed the £52m signing of Netherlands defender Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton.
The 26-year-old, who had a year left on his contract with the Seagulls, has signed what Spurs have called a "long-term" deal.
The pair formed a strong connection during their time together at former club Brighton & Hove Albion where the centre-back enjoyed a breakthrough season under the Italian in 2023/24, playing 39 times in all competitions to add to his 13 from the previous campaign.
Tottenham have signed Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke for £52m.
The Netherlands international defender had one year left on his contract at Brighton and played at the Seagulls under Roberto De Zerbi between 2023 and 2024.
The transfer window has only been open for a couple of days, but Tottenham Hotspur have just landed their third signing of the summer. Dutch international footballer Jan Paul van Hecke is joining Spurs from Brighton & Hove Albion.