FC Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly competing for the same player to strengthen their defensive lines, but his current club is unwilling to sell.
According to information from The Athletic, the two fierce rivals are in contention for former Wolfsburg player Micky van de Ven, who is currently under contract with Tottenham Hotspur. Despite a very poor season for the relegation-threatened Spurs, the Dutchman’s market value has significantly increased.
Manchester United is particularly focused on acquiring a technically gifted, left-footed center-back to create additional competition for Lisandro Martínez, especially after injury issues severely weakened their defense last season.
The 25-year-old has impressed scouts at both Old Trafford and Anfield, primarily due to his exceptional speed and technical abilities. Manchester United is said to be prepared to spend significantly to secure the defender’s services, regardless of whether Tottenham remains in the Premier League next season.
Will Van Dijk Be the X-Factor in the Van de Ven Transfer Race?
Liverpool also sees Van de Ven as a crucial long-term solution for their defense. He could serve as a potential long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konate and an ideal partner for Virgil van Dijk. The prospect of playing alongside his compatriot, Van Dijk, is considered a possible incentive for a move to Anfield.
Although Tottenham is officially maintaining that Van de Ven is not for sale, the situation could change, according to the report. Without qualification for European competitions, the financial pressure on Spurs is likely to increase.
It is anticipated that any potential transfer fee would significantly exceed the approximately 40 million Euros that Tottenham paid to Wolfsburg in 2023. Even if they manage to avoid relegation, the absence of international football could prompt the player to join a club that consistently competes for titles.
Micky van de Ven: Performance Statistics at Tottenham Hotspur
| Competitive Matches | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 91 | 10 | 3 | 22 | 1 |