Priced at just £5.0m in FPL, Van Hecke could ultimately emerge as one of the cheapest and best-value defenders in the game this season.
Van Hecke Looks Almost Nailed for Spurs
There has been plenty of commotion surrounding Tottenham's centre-back position, but Van Hecke appears to have an important advantage over his competition: he already knows exactly how to operate in a Roberto De Zerbi system.
Van Hecke played under De Zerbi at Brighton and made numerous appearances during the Italian's time at the club. His ability on the ball and comfort playing out from the back make him particularly well suited to the manager's possession-based approach.
That familiarity should make him almost a nailed-on starter whenever fit.
Van Hecke is likely to be paired with either Micky van de Ven or Marcos Senesi, both of whom could provide an excellent defensive partnership alongside him. Van de Ven offers exceptional recovery pace, while Senesi brings experience and composure on the ball. With either partner beside him, Van Hecke has the potential to help Spurs produce considerably better defensive numbers this season.
That is particularly important from an FPL perspective. If De Zerbi can turn Spurs into a more organised defensive side, Van Hecke could become an extremely reliable source of clean-sheet points at just £5.0m.
Don't Underestimate Van Hecke's Attacking Ability
Van Hecke's goal threat is not purely a club-level phenomenon either. He has also scored for the Netherlands, demonstrating that his attacking contribution can extend to the international stage.
At £5.0m, that makes him an intriguing all-round FPL option. You are not simply relying on Spurs' clean sheets to generate points. Van Hecke has already demonstrated that he can contribute goals, assists and bonus-related returns as well.
Can Van Hecke Repeat His 148 FPL Points?
This is where the potential becomes particularly exciting. Van Hecke managed 148 FPL points last season, despite Brighton's defensive performances not always giving him the maximum possible clean-sheet return.
Now imagine what could happen if Spurs become significantly more defensively reliable under De Zerbi.
Van Hecke could have the opportunity to combine his attacking returns with a stronger clean-sheet base. Even if he doesn't replicate exactly the same attacking numbers, improved defensive performances could compensate and make him one of the most productive £5.0m defenders available.
Of course, there is still some risk. Spurs are undergoing a major rebuild, and De Zerbi's system can demand plenty from his defenders. But Van Hecke's previous experience under the manager significantly reduces the tactical adaptation period.
Final Verdict
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