Brighton had offered Van Hecke a significant contract, making him the highest-paid player in the club's history. However, he declined the proposal. Several top Premier League teams, including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, are reportedly interested in signing Van Hecke.

Van Hecke joined Brighton in 2020 from NAC Breda, and the club will receive a portion of his future transfer fee. Brighton are now hoping to sell Van Hecke for €50 million. He still has two years left on his contract with Brighton, who will start their Premier League season on August 16th against Fulham.