Tottenham are intent on signing a left-footed centre-back as a back-up for Micky van de Ven
Tottenham Hotspur have already taken major strides under Thomas Frank, improving their mentality and work ethic. The defensive solidity, which was barely visible last term, has been one of hallmarks of this campaign thus far.
Spurs have managed to nullify teams such as Manchester City and Villarreal in Thomas Frank’s short tenure. There is a defensive structure and principles in place, making it tough for the opponents to unlock the Lilywhites’ defence. Needless to say, the key behind the defensive solidity and stability has been the partnership of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
The Lilywhites were badly exposed defensively last season when the centre-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven spent several months on the sidelines due to injury problems. The duo, dubbed the best in the world by talkSPORT pundit Jamie O’Hara, regaining peak fitness levels and form has largely contributed to Tottenham’s resilience at the back and fighting spirit.
However, despite Romero and Van de Ven getting back to their best and contributing both defensively and offensively, Spurs lack quality cover.
Tottenham keen to sign a left-footed centre-back as Van de Ven cover
Several players have stepped up after a disastrous last season in the Premier League. One of the biggest positives for Spurs this term has been the performances of Van de Ven. The Netherlands international has been extremely consistent, and it is fair to say that he is one of the first names on Frank’s teamsheet.
Such has been the 24-year-old’s importance- both on the pitch and off it- that Spurs CEO Vinai Venkatesham has made it one of his priorities to secure his future with a new contract. This is not only done to reward Van de Ven’s rock-solid displays and leadership skills, but also to thwart Real Madrid’s advances. And it looks like the club also has plans to protect the defender and keep his fitness intact.
According to an exclusive report from TBR Football, Tottenham aim to sign a left-sided centre-back in January to act as cover for Van de Ven. Radu Dragusin is still not fit from an ACL injury, while youngster Kota Takai has not played for Spurs since joining from Kawasaki Frontale in the summer. This means Kevin Danso remains the only fit centre-back option to cover the first-choice centre-back pairing.
This is why the north Londoners are planning to recall Luka Vuskovic from his HSV Hamburger loan in January. The 18-year-old has been excelling in a three-man backline for HSV Hamburger, and recently won the Bundesliga Rookie of the month award. The Croat’s rock-solid displays have led to Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig wanting to sign him on a permanent deal from Tottenham in 2026.
No point in disrupting Luka Vuskovic’s loan
Vuskovic has been gaining experience in the Bundesliga and showing his potential, which is exactly why Tottenham loaned him out to Hamburg in the first place. Regular playing opportunities at a top European league would massively benefit in the lanky defender’s development, and he can bring this experience to Spurs next year.
Thus, the Lilywhites must not disrupt Vuskovic’s loan. He should be allowed to complete it in Hamburg before trying to reintegrate him into the first-team squad for the 2026/27 season. As signing Van de Ven’s cover remains crucial, Spurs must look to recruit a left-footed defender in January rather than cutting short Vuskovic’s loan.
