Tottenham explore deal to sign Van de Ven ally – sources

Tottenham are exploring deals to sign a new centre-back this summer amid concerns over Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Van de Ven’s injury record and Romero’s suspensions have caused concern about the club’s depth at centre-back.

Ange Postecoglou is keen to strengthen the depth of his squad, with a new centre-back emerging as a priority when the transfer window opens.

Van de Ven, 23, missed 16 games due to hamstring injuries last season while making 29 appearances in Postecoglou’s side.

Meanwhile, Romero, 26, picked up seven yellow cards and one red card last season, missing three games through suspension, having received one red and 11 yellows in the previous season.

Tottenham target new centre-back after Van de Ven twist

As things stand, the only natural option to replace Van de Ven and Romero in case of any absences is Radu Dragusin, while Ben Davies and Emerson Royal were forced to fill in at times.

Eric Dier and Japhet Tanganga had provided options in the first half of last season before they were allowed to leave on loan, and have now been released from their contracts.

Joe Rodon also spent last season out on loan, and has been widely tipped to make a permanent switch to Leeds United.

Football Insider revealed on 4 June that Spurs are targeting a deal to sign Nottingham Forest defender Murillo this summer.

Postecoglou will be backed in the transfer market after his late-season rant raised questions about the players and staff at the club, with an on-pitch overhaul on the cards.

As a result of the boss’ anger, several transfer priorities have been lined up at Tottenham, with multiple new arrivals expected through the doors over the summer.