Liverpool have now identified Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven as the potential long-term Virgil van Dijk successor, but they face stiff competition for the Dutchman’s signature.
After what has been a dismal Premier League campaign, Tottenham Hotspur will hope that avoiding relegation this season will be enough to convince several of their top players to remain in north London.
Spurs Web has already reported that as many as 10 Spurs stars could depart N17 should the club go down, although that number could be reduced if West Ham United are relegated instead.
However, that has not stopped Europe’s elite clubs from circling several Tottenham players. Over the last few months, one man who has remained at the centre of transfer speculation is Micky van de Ven.
Tottenham star Micky van de Ven wanted by Liverpool
Van de Ven has endured a disappointing campaign by his standards, although his injury record this season has certainly been positive.
Nonetheless, Spurs want to keep hold of the Dutchman, and Spurs Web recently reported that talks over a new contract could soon be on the cards after Van de Ven expressed a desire to sign a new deal, citing Premier League survival and Roberto De Zerbi’s influence as key reasons.
It remains to be seen how those discussions progress. However, a report from Football Insider now states that Liverpool view Van de Ven as their leading candidate to eventually replace Virgil van Dijk.
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This is far from the first time Liverpool have been linked with Van de Ven, with Spurs Web consistently naming Arne Slot’s side among the clubs interested in the Dutch defender.
Football insider, however, explains that signing a new centre-back is high on the Reds’ list of priorities, and the Tottenham defender’s potential availability has put them on alert, with Liverpool preparing for life after Van Dijk.
Pete O’Rourke explained the situation. He said, “It seems that Van de Ven is waiting and sort of mulling over his options right now.
“There’s been a lot of speculation linking him with a move away from Tottenham. He’s obviously put contract talks on the back burner as well.
“Manchester United won’t be the only club who will be keeping tabs on the Dutchman’s situation at Tottenham.
“Liverpool have been linked as well, and they see Van de Ven as a possible long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk, they’re preparing for the future without him.
“Obviously, Van Dijk isn’t going to be around forever, so Liverpool want to be prepared for the day when he does eventually move on.
“There’ll be interest from abroad as there has been in the past. The likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid have also been mentioned as possible suitors for Van de Ven.
“The player himself might be feeling it’s the right time to move on for a new challenge.”
Spurs remain in strong position over Micky van de Ven
Liverpool is unlikely to have a free run at the Dutchman this summer, with competition for his signature remaining fierce.
Over the last few months, Spurs Web has consistently reported on interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United in Van de Ven.
The Lilywhites are also in a strong position as Van de Ven still has three years remaining on his current deal, leaving Tottenham under no pressure to sell.