Spurs have a gem on their hands.
That is the view of former Liverpool and Aston Villa attacker Stan Collymore, who believes Micky van de Ven is a ‘top quality’ signing and a player that could end up being pursued by two of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Not only has van de Ven, 22, been a great signing for Ange Postecoglou, but with the defender now officially the Premier League’s fastest-ever player, the attention surrounding the Dutchman is growing week after week.
“All the talk around him at the moment is about his speed across the ground after he became the fastest-ever player to play in the Premier League after being clocked at 37.38km/h against Brentford last month — he’s crazy fast!” Collymore said in an exclusive interview.
“[…] But pace aside, Van de Ven looks like a top-quality signing. Fair play to Spurs’ recruitment department because even though he missed a chunk of the season out injured, he looks like he is going to be one of the signings of the season.”
Becoming an instant hit with Spurs fans, the 22-year-old, who joined from Wolfsburg in the summer, is undoubtedly one of Postecoglou’s most important players, and this was best demonstrated with his ‘Man of the Match’ performance during the 2-2 draw against Everton last weekend. Had it not been for the Dutchman, Spurs could have easily lost the game, casting doubt over their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
“He has excellent positional awareness and looks to be a solid leader who communicates and organises his backline,” he added.
“There is no doubt about it, without van de Ven, Ange Postecoglou could not play the way he likes. The high defensive line would not work if he didn’t have a player capable of making such good recovery runs and tackles as van de Ven, so his acquisition alone has transformed a huge part of the way Spurs play.”
Micky van de Ven destined for Real Madrid?
And going on to predict what the future may hold for the 22-year-old, Collymore thinks two of Europe’s biggest clubs will want to sign him within the next two seasons and has therefore urged the club to renegotiate a new contract despite the centre-back signing just seven months ago.
“I think Spurs’ only concern will be keeping hold of him long-term,” he added.
“I really wouldn’t be surprised if Real Madrid or Manchester City come in for him in a season or two — they’ve both probably already got their eye on him. Daniel Levy should already be preparing a new contract for him; one that includes a clause to prevent the club from losing a player that looks like becoming their most valuable asset.”
Since joining the Lilywhites, van de Ven, who has five years left on his current deal, has scored one goal in his first 16 games in all competitions.
Agree totally, Van is a quality player and he and Romero are gelling well, both quality players, but why are we still conceding so many goals??? If we sign Kelly or Tosin during the summer transfer window, how does that leave Phillips or the other young central defenders coming through the academy?? COYS