Tottenham signs Netherlands center back Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton

LONDON (AP) — Tottenham confirmed the signing of Netherlands international Jan Paul van Hecke on Thursday from Brighton for a reported fee of 52 million pounds ($68 million).

>The 26-year-old Van Hecke, who is playing at the World Cup, will be reunited with coach Roberto De Zerbi, having played for him at Brighton.

>“I already have a really strong connection with the head coach, who I’m looking forward to working with again,” Van Hecke said in the Premier League club's announcement.

>Tottenham described Van Hecke as “passionate and imposing." The team said he signed a “long-term contract” without specifying the number of seasons.

>“He is a strong, intelligent centre back who is brave in possession and plays with personality,” De Zerbi said. “Those are important qualities for the way I want our team to set up.”

>Van Hecke made his World Cup debut on Sunday in the Netherlands' 2-2 draw with Japan.

>After narrowly avoiding relegation, Tottenham has been bolstering its defensive ranks. Spurs signed Argentina center back Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth and left-back Andy Robertson from Liverpool on free transfers.