Former Tottenham scout Micky Brown has revealed what he has heard about Real Madrid’s interest in Micky Van de Ven as Los Blancos plot a Premier League raid in the summer to address a weakness in their squad.
Micky van de Ven has quickly established a reputation as one of the best young centre-backs in the world since his switch to Tottenham 18 months ago.
The Dutchman is one of a kind as not only does he have an imposing frame that allows him to dominate duals, but he also pairs that with electric pace. This combination ensures that Spurs’ high defensive line is not undone by a ball over the top.
Van de Ven has been a huge miss for Tottenham over recent months as he continues to recover from his latest hamstring injury, but the defender is now edging close to a return. The Europa League clash against AZ Alkmaar on March 6 is earmarked as a possible return date for Van de Ven.
Mick Brown says Spurs are in danger of losing Micky van de Ven
Mick Brown has now heard through his sources that Real Madrid are keen on adding a top-class left-sided centre-back to their squad in the summer and are turning their gaze towards the Premier League.
He explained that while Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite features on Los Blancos’ wishlist, it is Van de Ven who is the preferred option for the La Liga giants.
Brown told Football Insider: “Real Madrid are in the market for a left-sided centre-back. There have been links to Jarrad Branthwaite, but I hear they’ve been looking at the Tottenham defender, Van de Ven. “I think he stands out as the better option between those two.
“He’s quicker than most, he’s technically impressive on the ball, he reads the game well. He’s got experience at a high level now as well. Obviously, a lot will depend on how he recovers from this injury, so they’ll be keeping an eye on that. But I think they’d be more likely to go for him rather than Branthwaite at the moment.”
Will Tottenham consider selling Van de Ven?
Given Van de Ven’s recurring hamstring issues, one can make the case that it might be in Tottenham’s interest to cash in on the centre-back if they get an offer of around £80m-£100m.
The decision might come down to whether Spurs think the Dutchman can overcome his injury issues. Experts suggest Tottenham should be developing an individual plan for Van de Ven to change his running style in order to minimise hamstring problems.
Tottenham will be worried about Madrid’s interest as they are in a strong position and can demand top dollar if Carlo Ancelotti’s men come knocking.