Why Van Hecke and Savinho Could Be Perfect Signings for Roberto De Zerbi's New-Look Spurs
Written by Josh Bark
The arrival of Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur signals the beginning of a new era in North London. Known for his bold, possession-based football and commitment to attacking play, De Zerbi has quickly established himself as one of Europe's most innovative coaches. Now tasked with taking Spurs to the next level, recruitment will be crucial.
Two players who could thrive under the Italian's management are Jan Paul van Hecke and Savinho. Both possess the technical quality, intelligence, and tactical flexibility required to flourish in De Zerbi's demanding system.
Van Hecke: The Foundation of De Zerbi's Build-Up Play
One of the hallmarks of De Zerbi's football is building attacks from deep. His centre-backs are expected to remain calm under pressure, invite opposition presses, and then play through them.
Van Hecke appears tailor-made for that role.
Having developed into one of the Premier League's most composed defenders, the Dutch international combines defensive aggression with excellent ball-playing ability. He is comfortable stepping into midfield, breaking opposition lines with his passing, and defending large spaces behind a high defensive line.
At Spurs, Van Hecke could become the defensive leader of De Zerbi's project. His ability to progress possession would allow Tottenham to control matches more effectively, while his athleticism would provide the security needed to support an aggressive attacking approach.
In many ways, he embodies exactly what De Zerbi wants from a modern centre-back.
Savinho: The X-Factor Spurs Need
While Van Hecke would strengthen the foundations, Savinho could provide the spark.
The Brazilian winger has emerged as one of the most exciting young attackers in Europe thanks to his electrifying dribbling, creativity, and confidence in one-versus-one situations. These qualities are particularly valuable in a De Zerbi system, where wide players are encouraged to isolate defenders and create opportunities through individual brilliance.
Savinho would give Spurs something they have lacked at times in recent seasons: unpredictability.
Whether driving inside from the flank, creating chances for teammates, or attacking defenders in transition, he offers the kind of attacking threat capable of changing games in an instant.
His direct style would complement Tottenham's existing attacking talent and provide De Zerbi with another weapon against deep defensive blocks.
A Perfect Blend of Control and Creativity
What makes these potential signings so appealing is how they would improve opposite ends of the pitch.
Van Hecke would help Tottenham dominate possession and progress the ball from defence, while Savinho would provide the creativity and flair needed to turn that dominance into goals.
Together they represent the balance every successful De Zerbi side requires: composure at the back and chaos for opponents in the final third.
The Verdict
If Tottenham are serious about backing Roberto De Zerbi's vision, Jan Paul van Hecke and Savinho should be high on the club's shortlist.
Van Hecke offers the defensive intelligence and technical quality needed to anchor De Zerbi's build-up play, while Savinho brings the explosive attacking ability capable of unlocking even the most stubborn defences.
As Spurs begin a new chapter under De Zerbi, these two players could be key pieces in building a team capable of challenging at the highest level while playing the exciting, fearless football supporters crave.
