Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to begin formal contract negotiations with Micky van de Ven, according to TEAMtalk, after growing increasingly optimistic they can retain the Dutch defender’s services. Earlier this year, Van de Ven had indicated he was unwilling to discuss new terms and was considering a departure this summer.
Reports in May suggested the 24-year-old was favouring a move to Liverpool over Manchester United, with Tottenham setting a substantial asking price for the player. However, the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi as manager has significantly altered the situation at the North London club.
De Zerbi quickly established himself by securing Tottenham’s Premier League status and then oversaw a significant investment in the squad, with over £225million spent on players including Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Andy Robertson. A £60million deal for Manchester City winger Savinho is also reportedly nearing completion, while the club continues to search for a new striker.
Sources have informed TEAMtalk that the club believes De Zerbi’s impact has changed Van de Ven’s perspective. Initial discussions with the player’s representatives have been encouraging, leading to the preparation for formal negotiations. Tottenham are confident they can persuade the Netherlands international to remain with the club.
This shift follows a similar change of heart from Pedro Porro, who was convinced by De Zerbi’s vision and subsequently signed a new long-term contract. Tottenham are also anticipating the departure of Cristian Romero, with Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid all expressing interest. Should Romero leave, Van de Ven is a leading candidate to become the new team captain.
De Zerbi reportedly views Van de Ven as a key figure in his rebuilding project, and the club believes offering him a leadership role will be a significant factor in securing his future. Convincing Van de Ven to stay is now a top priority for Tottenham, alongside completing further signings before the transfer window closes. The combination of De Zerbi’s influence, investment in the squad, and the potential captaincy are seen as key to securing the defender’s signature.
