Micky van de Ven is reportedly delaying talks over a new Tottenham Hotspur contract until the club installs a new “elite” head coach to succeed Thomas Frank, according to journalist Deal Jones.
The Netherlands international has allegedly put negotiations on hold during a dismal season for Spurs, who currently sit 14th in the Premier League. Jones claims Van de Ven could be tempted by interest from other clubs in the summer, with Liverpool keen on the 24-year-old and Real Madrid also keeping tabs on his situation.
Despite mounting pressure on Frank, the Dane is still expected to be in charge for Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Borussia Dortmund. However, Jones cautions that if Tottenham’s struggles continue and a high-profile manager is not appointed by next summer, they could be at risk of losing Van de Ven.
The centre-back has not yet committed to an extension and is believed to be stalling discussions while Frank remains at the helm. Although he has been one of Spurs’ standout performers this season, he is said to have doubts about the club’s current direction.
Away from the pitch, Tottenham are already weighing up possible replacements for Frank following a disappointing run of results. The club were knocked out of the FA Cup earlier this month and have failed to win any of their last five games in all competitions. Since early November, they have recorded just two Premier League victories from 13 matches, against Brentford and Crystal Palace.
Van de Ven is under contract until June 2029 on wages of around £112,000 per week, which puts Spurs in a strong negotiating position if interest materialises. Nonetheless, his reluctance to sign a new deal is becoming a concern, given his key role in the team.
The 24-year-old has scored six goals in 29 appearances across all competitions this season—an impressive tally for a central defender, surpassed only by Richarlison’s eight.
Tottenham will have a preview of how life might look without him on Tuesday, as Van de Ven is suspended for the clash with Borussia Dortmund.
