The reports out of Spain have sent shockwaves through North London. As of today, December 17, 2025, Real Madrid are reportedly "determined" to test Tottenham’s resolve with a €50 million (£42m) bid for Micky van de Ven in the upcoming January window. While the figure seems low for a player of his caliber, the logic behind Real Madrid's confidence—and Tottenham's likely fury—is becoming clear.
The €50m Calculation
According to reports from E-Noticies and TEAMtalk, Real Madrid’s leadership believes €50 million is a realistic starting point if the player agitates for the move.
The "Original Fee" Argument: Madrid scouts are pointing to the fact that Spurs paid roughly €50m to sign him from Wolfsburg in 2023. They hope to convince the player that his "market value" for a dream move to the Bernabéu should remain within a reachable bracket.
The Contract Stale-Mate: Club legend Glenn Hoddle recently revealed that Van de Ven has "no intention" of signing a lucrative contract extension currently on the table at Spurs. This has given Madrid hope that the Dutchman is ready to force an exit.
Why Real Madrid are Desperate
The urgency in Madrid is fueled by a total defensive collapse due to injuries:
1.Éder Militão: Suffered a torn hamstring earlier this month (his second major injury in two seasons) and is out for at least four months.
2.David Alaba & Antonio Rüdiger: Both are now in their 30s, and Madrid is looking for a "generational" left-footed center-back to lead their backline for the next decade.
3.The "Speed" Requirement: With Madrid playing an increasingly high line under their current tactical setup, Van de Ven’s status as one of the fastest players in world football makes him their "Plan A."
The Alternative: Marc Guéhi
If the Van de Ven deal proves impossible, Real Madrid are reportedly keeping Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace) as a backup option. Guéhi would likely cost around €30m–€40m, but he does not have the unanimous backing of the Madrid board like Van de Ven does.
The Verdict: Real Madrid are betting on the "player power" card. Unless Van de Ven explicitly hands in a transfer request in the next two weeks, a €50m move in January remains highly improbable.