“One of the best”: Fabrizio Romano provides crucial update on United’s pursuit of 24-yo defensive demon

Manchester United have developed greater defensive solidity under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, conceding just five goals in their last six Premier League games. For context, the Red Devils let in 32 goals in their previous 21 league games this season.

The English giants conceded 54 goals in 38 Premier League games last campaign, and their overall record this season is not a significant improvement. Meanwhile, Harry Maguire’s contract expires at the end of this season, and his future remains unclear.

Matthijs de Ligt was a rock at the back in the first few months of the campaign, but he has remained sidelined since the start of December. The situation has prompted United to consider reinforcements ahead of the summer, and recent reports suggest they have their eyes on Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven.

One of Premier League’s best

Van de Ven joined Spurs from Wolfsburg in the summer of 2023 and has since developed into one of the best defenders in the Premier League. The Dutchman has appeared 33 times in all competitions this season, starting every game.

Micky van de Ven Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

However, with Spurs currently languishing in 16th place in the Premier League table, Van de Ven’s future, as well as that of Cristian Romero, has been subject to speculation. The Dutchman’s defensive awareness and recovery pace make him an attractive proposition for United.

A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils are ready to take advantage of Tottenham’s struggles and have already initiated contact with the 24 year old’s camp regarding a possible summer move.

However, a contrasting update has now emerged from none other than reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano.

United not in talks for Van de Ven

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano insisted that United are not working to sign Van de Ven this summer. He said: “I do not see Tottenham selling both of them (Romero and Van de Ven). This would not be in Tottenham style, but there is obviously a lot of attention on the players, because they are among the best centre-backs in the world. And so several clubs are following these situations.”

“On van de Ven and Manchester United, these rumours around in the last 24 to 48 hours, coming from England, I received many questions, but guys, I’m not aware about anything really serious or concrete at this stage.”

Romano went on to state that it is normal for United to be linked with the Dutchman, adding: “Appreciating Micky van de Ven is absolutely normal because he is one of the best defenders around, so it’s absolutely normal to have these kinds of stories on many clubs.”

“But at the moment, I think, as I keep telling you, and I told you here on the channel for some time, the focus for Man United and the big spending is going to be on midfielders. Man Utd want to invest in midfielders.”

“Then Man Utd to sign a defender? I think it’s a possibility in the summer. Let’s see what happens with [Harry] Maguire if he’s going to stay, if he’s going to leave. But at the moment, for Micky van de Ven and United, there is nothing really serious or concrete.”

Final Thoughts

Van de Ven could be a fantastic addition to United’s squad, but one assumes that Spurs will be reluctant to let him join a Premier League rival. The Dutchman is also under contract until 2029, making any move this summer highly unlikely.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

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