Tottenham Hotspur have been urged to slap a £100 million price tag on Micky van de Ven amid growing speculation linking the Dutch defender with a move to Real Madrid.
The 23-year-old has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most exciting defenders since joining Spurs from VfL Wolfsburg in 2023 for €50 million.
Known for his blistering pace, composure on the ball, and ability to surge forward with confidence, Van de Ven has become an indispensable figure in Tottenham’s backline.
His recent form has only added fuel to his growing reputation. Just a week after netting twice against Everton in a convincing 3-0 league win, the defender found the back of the net again, further proving that he is more than just a solid centre-back.
His attacking instincts and physical attributes have impressed fans and pundits alike, with many starting to question whether his talents are being fully utilized in his current position.
Former Tottenham player Jamie O’Hara was among those singing his praises on Sky Sports. He compared Van de Ven’s potential evolution to that of Gareth Bale, who also began his career as a left-back before transforming into one of the most explosive forwards in world football.
O’Hara suggested that the Dutchman’s pace, skill, and drive could make him just as effective further up the pitch. “I genuinely think he could be Gareth Bale,” O’Hara said.
“When I played with Bale, you could see his athleticism and raw ability, and look what he became a world-class winger and number ten. Micky Van de Ven has that same blend of speed, power, and technique. I think he’s almost wasted as a centre-half when he’s got so much to offer going forward.”
O’Hara went on to suggest that Van de Ven’s physical attributes standing at 6ft 4in and blessed with lightning speed could make him effective as an attacking full-back or even a winger.
“You could play him as a left winger who can drive to the byline, cross, and even score. Nobody can keep up with him,” he added.
Reports from TEAMtalk have since revealed that Real Madrid are closely monitoring Van de Ven’s situation, with the Spanish giants viewing him as a long-term successor in their defensive setup.
The Galacticos’ interest is said to be “genuine,” though Tottenham are under no pressure to sell. Van de Ven’s current contract runs until 2029, giving the North London club strong leverage in any potential negotiations.
O’Hara admitted he wouldn’t fault the player for wanting to test himself at a club of Madrid’s stature but stressed that Tottenham must not allow him to leave cheaply.
“If Real Madrid come calling, Tottenham should demand at least £100 million,” he said. “He’s that good. He’s one of the best defenders in the league right now, and if Spurs are serious about challenging for trophies, they have to make him the face of their future.”
The pundit also drew parallels between Van de Ven’s versatility and Bale’s transformation under Harry Redknapp and André Villas-Boas, suggesting that Spurs could unlock even more from him by allowing him to play in more advanced roles.
“He’s got the technique, the aerial ability, and the confidence to take players on. I can see him evolving into a marauding left-back or even a winger in the future,” O’Hara explained.
He further emphasized that Tottenham must prioritize securing Van de Ven’s long-term commitment. “We have to do everything to keep hold of him,” O’Hara said passionately.
“Pay him what he deserves £200,000 a week if that’s what it takes. Players like him don’t come around often. He’s quick, intelligent, and brave, and he’s only going to get better.”
O’Hara concluded that while he wouldn’t begrudge Van de Ven a dream move to Real Madrid, Tottenham must ensure they are compensated fairly. “For me, he’s a £100 million centre-half, minimum. If Madrid want him, they’ll have to pay big money.
Spurs should tie him down to a new deal and make him the centerpiece of the club’s future. He’s that good he could define the next era of Tottenham Hotspur.”
Van de Ven’s rapid rise has put him firmly on Europe’s radar, and Tottenham now face the challenge of keeping hold of a player whose potential seems limitless.
Whether he stays to lead Spurs into a new era or eventually follows in Bale’s footsteps to the Bernabéu, one thing is certain—Micky van de Ven is a star in the making.
