Report - Mourinho wants Micky at Madrid
As ambitious as the headline might be, the saving grace of Marca’s front page is that it is lifted pretty much from the Sunday Mirror Sport, which, as regular readers will know, has a credibility rating somewhere between The Dandy and The Beano when it comes to football.
Real Madrid have shown repeated interest since late 2024/early 2025, viewing him as a potential long-term successor to veterans like Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba. He fits profiles for a modern, athletic defender who can build from the back, qualities highlighted under managers like Xabi Alonso previously, and now linked again under José Mourinho.
Van de Ven’s speed and left-footed profile make him a strong fit for top clubs. However, some critiques in the 2025/26 season noted inconsistency or mentality questions at times, which could factor into any deal.
I take the view that the Dutchman would benefit hugely from staying at Spurs for at least one more season, and ideally not having to cope with the insanity of a third 17th-placed finish.
Tottenham remain in a strong position due to his contract, but a big bid from Real Madrid could test that in the window next year. A solid World Cup would also benefit the player’s reputation.
Spurs are said to have repeatedly tried to offer him a new, improved long-term contract (e.g., 5 years until 2031, with a significant wage uplift to the £150k to £180k p/w range in some reports); allegedly, he has been reluctant or turned down talks…
I take the view that a new and improved deal will be signed and that Tottenham will escape relegation yet again. What this situation reminds all of us is that clubs have a wider responsibility other than just to the supporters.
Players that feel part of a devalued project are liable to get restless. Vinai & Co. need to raise their game. So, less LinkedIn waffle and more solid deeds.
Assuming we have Senesi, Van Hecke, Danso and Vuscovic for the two CB places and Robertson, Sousa and dear old Ben Davies for LB, this means we can sell VDV, Dragusin, Udogie and Romero and still have plenty of defensive cover, especially with no European football next season. If we do keep VDV, we should play him at LB as the Dutch do. The RB position is more problematic. I think we should play Spence or Gray there and play Porro (if we keep him) as an out-and-out RW. The money from sales must be spent on a decent striker and maybe another keeper to replace Vicario.
Now we know why we bought Senesi. Good old Maureen doing us a favour. Let's hope they offer silly money and we can buy someone who can score goals at the other end of the pitch.