Thomas Frank Demands Tottenham Secure Micky van de Ven With New Contract Amid Transfer Buzz

‎Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank has made his stance clear as transfer speculation builds around Micky van de Ven, urging rival clubs — including Liverpool — to back away from the Dutch defender. The reigning Premier League champions are reported to be monitoring the centre-back, but Spurs have no intention of letting him go and are preparing to discuss fresh contract terms in north London.

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‎Tottenham boss Thomas Frank warns Liverpool off Micky van de Ven as Spurs set a £100m price tag and push for a new contract amid rising transfer interest.

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‎Van de Ven has become one of Tottenham’s standout performers since arriving from Wolfsburg in the summer of 2023, a deal that cost up to £43 million. His rapid development has seen his valuation soar, with the club now believed to be demanding close to £100 million before even entertaining negotiations. The inflated figure is designed to discourage interest from potential suitors.

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‎The 24-year-old has not only impressed defensively but has also made a notable impact in front of goal, scoring six times this season from centre-back — a tally only surpassed within the squad by Richarlison. His influence has been recognised internally, with Frank adding him to the club’s leadership group as he continues to grow into a commanding figure at the back.

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‎Despite his importance, reports suggest the Netherlands international may be unsettled as Tottenham continue to struggle for consistency and remain in the lower half of the Premier League table. With three years still remaining on his current deal, Frank believes now is the right time to secure his long-term future.

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‎Speaking publicly, the Spurs boss stressed Van de Ven’s importance: “He’s very important for us, Micky is a Tottenham player now and for the future. He’s definitely a player we should prioritise. For me, he is a key player for this team and this club and hopefully for many years to come. He has what it takes to become even better and can help us reach where we want to be.”

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‎Frank also dismissed any suggestions of dissatisfaction, pointing to the defender’s positive mood following a recent victory over Borussia Dortmund. He praised Van de Ven’s physical condition, leadership growth and overall contribution, describing him as an outstanding ambassador for the club and a cornerstone for the seasons ahead.

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‎Liverpool’s interest stems from growing concerns at centre-back. After missing out on Marc Guehi, who joined Manchester City from Crystal Palace in January, the Reds are reviewing their defensive options. Ibrahima Konate is edging closer to the end of his contract, while captain Virgil van Dijk will turn 35 this summer and is tied to a deal only until 2027, alongside Mohamed Salah.

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‎Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore has suggested major changes could arrive under Arne Slot, hinting that one or both of Salah and Van Dijk could depart in the coming summer as younger stars like Hugo Ekitike, Isak and Florian Wirtz are integrated into the squad.

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‎Collymore added that Salah may feel overlooked amid excitement surrounding new arrivals, and questioned whether the established leaders and emerging stars can coexist long term. He predicted that Van Dijk could remain for one more season, but expects Salah to leave.

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‎While Liverpool may view Van de Ven as a future solution at the heart of defence, Tottenham remain determined to keep hold of their prized asset. Any approach is likely to be met with resistance, forcing the Reds to explore alternatives if they wish to reinforce their back line.