Danny Welbeck responds as Jan Paul van Hecke sends 'unforgettable' Brighton message

Jan Paul van Hecke has sent a final message to Brighton after his move to Tottenham was confirmed.

Following a series of multiple bids, Spurs confirmed the signing of van Hecke from Brighton for £52million.

The Dutchman, competing at this summer's World Cup for his country, reunites with Roberto De Zerbi who gave him his Brighton debut in August 2022.

Van Hecke leaves Brighton after six years and more than 100 appearances for the Seagulls.

The 26-year-old started 36 of Brighton's 38 Premier League matches this season as Fabian Hurzeler's side qualified for the Europa Conference League.

Van Hecke continues the club's trend of signing young talent and selling them on for a profit, and the deal includes a significant sell-on fee to benefit Brighton in the future.

After the news of his transfer to Spurs had been announced, van Hecke took to Instagram to share a final message with the Brighton fanbase.

The defender said he was "incredibly proud" to have represented an "amazing" club.

Van Hecke added: "We shared unforgettable moments, achieved great results in the league, and made history by playing in Europe for the first time.

"I always felt the support from everyone at the club, and I leave with friendships and memories that will stay with me forever."

The message was signed off by van Hecke saying "thank you for everything," alongside a blue love heart emoji.

Brighton striker, and former Arsenal player, Danny Welbeck responded to the post by saying: "All the best JP. What a player."

Meanwhile, former Brighton striker Bobby Zamora replied: "Good luck pal. Smash it."

Teammates Joel Veltman, Jack Hinshelwood and Carlos Baleba all liked the post.

Brighton looked to have a replacement for van Hecke lined up, but sources have told Football Insider that they're not willing to pay £60m to sign Spurs defender Luka Vuskovic.

Brighton have already seen a £30m bid rejected by Spurs for Vuskovic, who had a successful loan spell at Hamburg this season.

Vuskovic though has yet to make a senior appearance for Spurs, and the arrival of van Hecke increases competition for places in De Zerbi's squad.

The 19-year-old would continue to benefit from regular game time, with his performances at Hamburg earning him a starting spot for Croatia at the World Cup.

Brighton's next move remains to be seen, but it is likely that Hurzeler will now be looking to sign a new centre-back this summer.