Tottenham dup Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have both been linked with moves away from north London – but what should Spurs do with their star centre-backs?
Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have both been linked to summer transfer window exits from Tottenham. The latter has emerged as a target for Real Madrid alongside links to Liverpool while the Spurs captain could depart following a controversial season in north London, with Manchester United and Atletico Madrid rumoured to be keen.
Both central defenders see their current contracts expire in 2029, which places Tottenham in a strong position. However, it does look as though preparations are being made for at least one defensive departure with Marcos Senesi joining and Jan Paul Van Hecke being intensely pursued.
There is a scenario, albeit unlikely, that both depart while the duo staying cannot be entirely ruled out with Roberto De Zerbi set for some big decisions this summer. The younger and more unique Van de Ven is likely to cost more but Romero’s experience and trophy cabinet also means he will not be cheap.
With all of that being said, football.london ‘s writers have had their say on the futures of Romero and Van de Ven ahead of the trading period officially opening in less than one week.
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Scott Trotter
Cristian Romero has overstayed his welcome. The Argentina international is regularly linked with a transfer away from the club, and while on his day, he’s an impressive defender, Tottenham may have been better off cashing in. He’s meant to be a dressing room leader, but remains a liability due to the rash actions he can take. He may feel he’s outgrown the club, but he’s been a central figure in a team that has struggled and made things more difficult on occasion.
Micky van de Ven’s situation is trickier. The Dutchman has been unable to help Spurs to strong finishes, but looks to have everything required to be a defender at the top level. The parties interested in him say a lot about his ability, and the 25-year-old feels like a player that you lay a foundation with rather than watch someone else benefit from his talent.
Richard Cusack
The best thing to do would be for Spurs to bring an end to the Cristian Romero era and move him on. He’s a great defender, there’s no doubt about that, but his leadership skills are certainly in question. He continues to be linked with a move to Atletico Madrid and it might be best for all parties that he moves on.
As for Van de Ven, I think his ceiling is much higher. He’s got quality and time on his side which is a real asset for Spurs. Paradoxically, it actually might make more sense selling him because of the fee they would be able to command, rather than waiting for a team to offer Romero the escape route he keeps being linked with.
Joe Doyle
As good as Cristian Romero has been for Spurs, it’s time for him to leave. It’s fairly obvious he wants out, and has done for some time – it would be best for everyone involved if he moved away this summer.
He’s a very good centre-back, of that there’s no doubt. But his temperament has always been an issue on the pitch, and agitating for a move is never sustainable. You can’t have the captain of the club looking for the exit door every transfer window.
I think Micky van de Ven is a clearer option to stay. However, the injury issues that have plagued him in recent seasons are a massive issue. If they could get a good price for him – and it would have to be very good – I’d be tempted to also move him on, provided a good quality replacement can be found.
Sam Truelove
Cristian Romero needs to go. I think everyone knows it and everyone expects it. It’s a sad end to the captain’s time at the club but it’s clear his future lies elsewhere. His attitude has also been questioned and I just think it will be best for both parties if they go their separate ways this summer, especially as he should bring in a decent fee.
Micky van de Ven, though, is the future of the club. It’s possible the Dutchman is made the new club captain if Romero does depart and under Roberto De Zerbi the centre-back should flourish. Van de Ven can also help Marcos Senesi, Jan Paul van Hecke is he joins and wonderkid Luka Vuskovic in their development.
