Journalist Pete O’Rourke has revealed Micky van de Ven’s plans amid contradictory claims about the centre-back’s future at Tottenham.
Over the past few months, we have heard several sources suggest that Van de Ven’s head has been turned ahead of the summer window by interest from some elite clubs.
Some sources have even suggested that the Tottenham defender is signalling with his off-field antics that he expects to leave this summer.
However, over the past couple of weeks, there have been claims that Van de Ven may have a change of heart and sign a new contract at Spurs.
Micky van de Ven’s Champions League objective revealed amid Tottenham exit rumours
A few days ago, journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that the arrival of De Zerbi has boosted Spurs’ chances of keeping Van de Ven, with the Dutchman said to be enjoying working with the Italian.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke has now revealed that the Netherlands international is continuing to assess his options ahead of a final decision, but he shared that the 25-year-old wants to play Champions League football regularly.
When asked if Van de Ven is likely to depart Spurs, O’Rourke told Football Insider: “A bit similar to Fernandes and West Ham, if Spurs were to go down it will be almost inevitable that Van de Ven would move on. There’s been a lot of speculation linking him with a move away from Tottenham. He’s obviously put contract talks on the back burner as well.
“Spurs earlier in season were looking to tie him down to a new deal, but it seems that Van de Ven is waiting and mulling over his options right now as well. We know he’s a top-class performer, but he’s had his injury problems and it’s probably not been one of his most consistent consistent season this year.
“He’s a player in huge demand and if Spurs go down I definitely expect him to leave. Even if they do stay up, though, the player himself might be feeling it’s the right time to move on for a new challenge. He sees himself as somebody who should be playing regular Champions League football.”
A host of top clubs are interested in poaching Van de Ven from Spurs
Reports indicate that Man United are refusing to give up on Van de Ven as Michael Carrick’s men eye a defensive rebuild this summer.
An increasing number of outlets are suggesting that Van de Ven is seen as a ‘very attractive’ option by Liverpool, with the Reds keen on reinforcing their backline after missing out on Marc Guehi.
Real Madrid and Barcelona are also said to be exploring a move for Van de Ven, who is thought to be valued at £100m by De Zerbi’s men.