Tottenham Hotspur have set clear conditions for any potential departure of Micky van de Ven, insisting that any interest from Real Madrid must include a named first-team player in a swap arrangement. The 24-year-old Dutch centre-back, who joined Spurs from Wolfsburg for £43m in summer 2023, remains under contract until summer 2029 following an extension signed in 2025. Under head coach Thomas Frank, appointed in June 2025, Van de Ven has established himself as a defensive cornerstone, starting 20 Premier League matches this season despite occasional fitness concerns.
The report from Football365 indicates Madrid's long-standing admiration for Van de Ven's pace and ball-playing ability, qualities that would complement their high defensive line under Hansi Flick. However, Tottenham's stance is firm: no straight cash offer will be entertained, and any proposal must involve a specific Madrid asset — widely understood to be a versatile defender or midfielder — to balance the books and strengthen the squad. This position reflects both Van de Ven's importance to Frank's system and Spurs' reluctance to weaken their backline mid-season without adequate reinforcement.
Van de Ven's Value and Squad Role
Van de Ven's performances have been a highlight in a challenging campaign for Tottenham, who sit mid-table under Frank. His recovery pace, aerial presence, and ability to progress play from deep have made him a preferred partner for Cristian Romero, with the pair forming one of the Premier League's more reliable centre-back duos when fit. Minor hamstring issues sidelined him briefly in December 2025, but he has since returned to regular selection. His contract extension to 2029, agreed last summer with improved terms reportedly around £90,000 per week, gives Tottenham strong leverage in negotiations.
Madrid's interest stems from their need for left-footed defensive depth behind Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger. Van de Ven's profile aligns with Flick's preference for mobile, ball-playing defenders, but Tottenham's demand for a direct swap rather than cash underscores their strategic approach: they will only consider losing a key defender if it brings in comparable quality. Liverpool have also been credited with monitoring Van de Ven as a long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, though no active approach has been reported this window.
Market Reaction and Financial Considerations
Betting markets have registered the speculation, with odds shortening on Real Madrid as Van de Ven's next club while Tottenham retention remains favoured. The latest Micky van de Ven next club odds reflect divided opinion: Madrid lead as a potential destination, but prices indicate scepticism over a mid-season swap given Tottenham's firm stance and the complexity of agreeing player valuations. Any deal would likely require Madrid to include a player of significant standing — possibly a defender or wide midfielder — to match Van de Ven's current market value, estimated around £60-70m.
Financially, Tottenham have no urgent need to sell. Van de Ven's wages are manageable, and his sale would only be considered if it strengthens the squad overall. The swap demand protects against PSR pressure while addressing defensive depth, particularly with injuries to key personnel earlier in the campaign. For Van de Ven, a move to Madrid would represent a step up to Champions League contenders, but his preference appears to be stability in London unless the right project emerges.
Window Dynamics and Summer Outlook
With the January window closed, attention shifts to summer 2026. Tottenham's position is clear: Van de Ven is not for sale unless Madrid meet their specific swap criteria. Continued strong performances could elevate his value further, while any prolonged dip might soften the club's stance. For Madrid, Van de Ven remains an attractive target, but agreeing terms on a swap player will prove challenging. Liverpool's interest adds competitive tension, yet Tottenham's leverage — long contract, key role under Frank — suggests any move would require exceptional circumstances. Until then, Van de Ven stays central to Spurs' defensive plans.