Micky van de Ven ranks highly among the Tottenham players expected to leave the club this summer, and Manchester United are the latest to be linked with a move for the Dutch defender.
Once a fan's favourite in N17, Van de Ven's stock has dwindled this calendar year, only partly because of poor performance.
It wasn't so long ago when we were discussing our road-running centre-back as a potential £100m+ asset, but a stark downturn in form amid perceived attitude issues means supporters have come around to the idea of parting ways at the next possible opportunity, even if Roberto De Zerbi keeps us in the Premier League.
Van de Ven hit back at the "made-up" rumours regarding the downing of tools in the Lilywhite camp last month, but reports continue to emerge about the defender's future plans. He certainly hasn't performed with the conviction or vigour of a man who's overly bothered about Tottenham's short-term fate.
Man Utd emerging as potential Van de Ven suitor
His struggles this year are unlikely to deter potential suitors in the summer transfer window, with Barcelona and Liverpool among the clubs previously associated with a Van de Ven pursuit. However, Man Utd are also set to be in the market for a left-sided centre-back.
According to The Athletic, United are weighing up a move for Tottenham's Dutch defender, having seen Van de Ven torment them in the past. Many will remember his rampaging run at Old Trafford before teeing up Brennan Johnson at the back post in 2023, as well as his outstanding goal-line clearance in last season's Europa League final that helped Spurs to glory.
The likely conclusion of Van de Ven's tale in north London is a sad one, given the extent of his adoration among supporters during his first two-and-a-half years at the club.
The writing has been on the wall since he discussed his future with Gary Neville on ’The Overlap’. With his stock sky-high, Van de Ven was seemingly putting the wheels in motion for an imminent move away from north London.
His wish will almost certainly be granted at the end of 2025/26, even if Spurs retain their Premier League status. Supporters are unlikely to be so cruel if Van de Ven walks after avoiding the drop, but few will have any time for him if his departure follows a stunning relegation.
It's time to build this defence around Luka Vušković.
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