Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven continues to attract speculation regarding a potential departure from the club. The Dutch international's future at Spurs has been under scrutiny for a considerable amount of time, with Liverpool previously mentioned as a prospective suitor.
Real Madrid interest emerges
However, the Sunday Mirror reported over the weekend that Real Madrid are exploring the prospect of acquiring the Netherlands international this summer. The report suggested that the La Liga giants are eager to bolster their defensive options under new manager Jose Mourinho.
Van de Ven's representative, Jose Fortes, spoke to Spanish publication Marca last year where he acknowledged that a switch to Madrid could materialise down the line. He said: "Micky also has the quality to play for a big club like Real Madrid someday. Besides, Madrid needs a defender with his characteristics."
Spurs' valuation and potential swap deal
Spurs would reportedly demand £75m for the defender this summer, though the rumours could present an opening for Roberto De Zerbi to strengthen his own ranks through a potential swap deal. The Spanish side are understood to be on the verge of securing Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool, and the signing of Van de Ven as well would probably lead to certain players departing the Santiago Bernabeu.
Dean Huijsen left Bournemouth last summer to seal a £50m transfer to Madrid but experienced a challenging first campaign with the La Liga club. The defender made 40 appearances for Madrid and was given 24 starts in La Liga during Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa's spells in charge.
Raul Asencio is another player whose Madrid future could be uncertain following Konate's arrival and the possible signing of Van de Ven, with the 23-year-old managing just 23 La Liga outings last season. Antonio Rudiger's future at Madrid has also been called into question for several months, with the former Chelsea man's deal due to run out at the end of the month. Yet reports suggest Rudiger will pen a one-year extension to stay at Madrid. This could, however, provide the Spanish giants with an opportunity to receive a fee for the 33-year-old instead of allowing him to walk away for free in 12 months' time.
