Tottenham have found Micky van der Ven’s successor as Thomas Frank eyes stunning swoop
Tottenham are already preparing for the upcoming transfer windows as they seek to build upon Thomas Frank’s good start.
The Dane has proved to have a good eye for signings to date, with Mohammed Kudus being sensational for Tottenham so far this season.
However, there are still plenty of areas that need vast improvements, including their backline.
Recently, Micky van der Ven has been linked with a move away from Tottenham.
As a result, Frank may be preparing to eventually replace the centre-back.
Tottenham eye Lautaro Rivero
Reports have recently emerged that Tottenham are interested in Lautaro Rivero.
The Argentine international is believed to have plenty of potential and has shone at River Plate.
As a result, both Atletico Madrid and the City Group are interested in Rivero, as his reputation continues to increase.
- Rivero made his debut for River Plate in 2024
- He has since become an Argentine international, winning his first cap against Puerto Rico in October 2025
- River Plate have a £86.7million release clause in the defender’s contract
However, Tottenham’s interest in the 21-year-old may be as a result of the potential loss of van der Ven.
The Spurs star’s contract is up in 2028, and with River Plate unwilling to give up Rivero until mid-2026, it could be the perfect replacement.
This is because next summer is arguably the last chance Tottenham have to make serious money on van der Ven unless he signs a new contract.
Therefore, by signing Rivero next summer, it would allow Spurs to sell their star defender, effectively making the Argentine the successor to the Dutchman.
Rivero vs Micky van der Ven
According to Fotmob on 17 October, Rivero actually beats van der Ven in multiple defensive stats.
The Argentine’s tackles per game and duels won are a particular standout.
| Stats in the league this season per 90 minutes | Lautaro Rivero | Micky van der Ven |
| Goals | 0.10 | 0.15 |
| Tackles | 2.05 | 1.16 |
| Duels won | 6.35 | 3.05 |
| Interceptions | 1.20 | 1.02 |
| Passing accuracy | 81% | 92.3% |
| Dribble success rate | 75% | 50% |
| Fouls won | 0.95 | 0.44 |
| Aerial duels won | 63.5% | 47.1% |
However, it must be remembered that the Premier League is significantly harder.
Nevertheless, there is clear potential in Rivero, and Frank would do well to seal the transfer.
Hopefully, a move will soon be made to ensure that the youngster is a Spurs player by next summer.
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