THOMAS FRANK issued a hands-off warning over £100million-rated Micky van de Ven — and declared he is Tottenham’s future.
Spurs boss Frank rubbished claims his Dutch defender, 24, is pushing for a summer transfer exit.
Liverpool are among clubs eyeing VDV, while Real Madrid have also been linked with a move.
But Frank said: “He’s very important for us. Micky’s a Tottenham player now and for the future of the club.”
Van de Ven could have joined Liverpool in 2023 but then-Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou convinced him to snub their interest.
And the defender joined from Wolfsburg for an initial £35million after being promised regular first-team football.
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He helped Spurs win the Europa League last term by beating Manchester United in the final.
And Van de Ven is set to return at Burnley on Saturday after suspension ruled him out of Tuesday’s 2-0 Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
Asked if Van de Ven was happy at Spurs, who are 14th in the Prem, Frank replied: “I just saw Micky, he seems very happy.
“He was very happy after the last game we won. Micky’s a fantastic ambassador for this club.
“He is, potentially, having his best season. He’s growing as a leader — scoring goals as well.”
Van de Ven will be out of contract in 2029 and Frank wants him tied down to improved terms.
Asked if there had been any talks, the ex-Brentford chief said: “That I don’t know — but he’s a player we should prioritise.
“Micky is a key player and, hopefully, for many years to come.”
Lucas Bergvall became the fifth Spurs player in the last five games to pick up a serious injury.
The Swedish midfielder, 19, faces up to three months out with an ankle issue, joining Mohammed Kudus, Rodrigo Bentancur, Richarlison and Ben Davies on the sidelines.
Frank added: “It seems like we are cursed.”
Spurs, meanwhile, sealed a £12.9m deal for Santos‘ 19-year-old Brazilian left-back Souza on Thursday.
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