Who will replace Xabi if Real Madrid fire him? Micky van de Ven transfer talks gain momentum amidst Arbeloa rumours

Micky van de Ven is unlikely to sign a contract extension with Tottenham Hotspur, a report claimed. Real Madrid will be thrilled to know of the development as the Spanish giants face another season getting derailed due to fitness woes in their defensive department.

Dutch international Micky van de Ven has been linked to Real Madrid for some time now, and Eder Militão suffering another long-term injury setback means Real will be forced to fast-track their transfer plans. Dayot Upamecano of Bayern Munich and Van de Ven remain the leading targets for the La Liga team, who could only claim six from a maximum of 15 points in the last five domestic outings to end up handing a four-point lead to Barcelona.

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Micky is dominant in the air, is fast, and is known for winning duels. The muscular defender, who joined the Premier League side from Wolfsburg in 2023, can operate as a left-back when asked and can defend in the open field as well. The 24-year-old Dutchman joined Tottenham in a deal worth up to £43m (€50m, $58m) and has since established himself as one of the London club’s most important players.

His current deal runs out only in 2029, but Spurs want him to sign a contract extension, which has been straight away declined by the defender, Team Talk said in a report. It was not mentioned if Real's interest was the reason for the player's stance as he is also being tracked by other European giants, including Manchester City, PSG and Liverpool, the report added.

Xabi Alonso’ future

However, Van de Ven may never get to play under Xabi Alonso at the Santiago Bernabéu as a string of unconvincing results has put his job at risk. A defeat at home to Manchester City on Thursday in the UEFA Champions League is likely to strike another nail in the gaffer's coffin, reports indicate, as a section of the club's board is already against letting him continue in charge of the club.

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Unless Real Madrid make a very hefty offer, Spurs are unlikely to let their most influential defender leave mid-season. Dean Huijsen is expected to return before January, but it needs to be seen if it is enough for the Los Blancos to reclaim momentum and play the catch-up game with Hansi Flick's Barcelona.

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Meanwhile, if Alonso, a former Madridista, is fired, Álvaro Arbeloa is likely to land the job, Team Talk said in a report. A former teammate of Alonso, Arbeloa is currently in charge of Real Madrid Castilla, the youth side. The club higher-ups have "impressed the board" with his strong performances with the youth side and skillset, the report said.