Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven is being tipped for a major summer transfer after another difficult period for Spurs, with former Netherlands international Eljero Elia backing the centre back to step up to one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
The 24 year old has been one of Tottenham’s few consistent performers during a turbulent campaign under Thomas Frank, but the club’s slide toward the bottom half of the Premier League has intensified speculation about his long term future. Liverpool and Real Madrid have both been linked as potential destinations.
Van de Ven’s speed and recovery defending have repeatedly limited the damage during an erratic season in north London. While Spurs continue to search for stability under Frank, their inability to mount a serious push for European qualification has raised concerns about retaining top level talent.
Tottenham currently sit 14th in the table and are closer to the relegation places than the top four. With Champions League football looking increasingly unlikely, the summer window is shaping up as a critical moment for the club and for Van de Ven’s career trajectory.
The Dutch defender’s form has not gone unnoticed at international level. Elia has publicly endorsed a move to a higher tier club, insisting Van de Ven is ready for the demands of football’s biggest stages.
Elia believes consistency is the final step. He has highlighted Van de Ven’s physical strength, composure in possession, ability to carry the ball forward and threat in the final third as attributes that suit elite teams competing for major honours.
Interest from Liverpool comes amid a deepening injury crisis at Anfield. Arne Slot is currently without several defensive options, including long term absentees and key squad players sidelined at a crucial stage of the season. The lack of depth has exposed Liverpool defensively, particularly against high intensity opponents.
Although the Reds secured a future deal for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet in January, the 20 year old will not arrive until the summer. That delay has left Slot managing the closing months of the campaign with limited flexibility at the back.
The context adds urgency to Liverpool’s recruitment plans, especially with a defining league clash against Manchester City approaching. A recent win over Newcastle eased some pressure, but the structural issues in defence remain clear.
Van de Ven, meanwhile, will be focused on immediate matters as Tottenham prepare to face Manchester United at Old Trafford. Spurs are currently on a winless league run and in need of momentum as the season enters its decisive phase.
Whether Tottenham can halt their decline may yet influence the defender’s future. If not, Van de Ven appears increasingly destined for a move that matches his individual level and ambitions, with Europe’s heavyweights already circling.
