Manchester United have reportedly joined the race to sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven ahead of the summer transfer window, according to TEAMtalk.
While all the focus in the media is about the midfield changes Man United could make this summer, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed that they could also look to bring in a versatile left-back, left-winger and striker this summer should they qualify for the Champions League.
United are currently on course to do exactly that, with Monday night's 1-0 win at Everton giving them a three-point cushion over fifth-placed Chelsea.
In addition to those positions, the Red Devils are now said to be considering raiding one of their Premier League rivals for a centre-back who is one of their best players.
Man United Have 'Strong Interest' in Van de Ven
According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham's board are deeply concerned that they could lose a number of their best players this summer, especially if they suffer relegation from the Premier League.
One of those is their Dutch defender Van de Ven, who the report says is expected to leave regardless of whether they survive or not given his desire to play Champions League football.
United are now said to have joined other top clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid in the race to land the 24-year-old, although they will know that finishing in the top four could be crucial to their chances of sealing a deal.
Another issue could be the centre-back's price tag, with GIVEMESPORT sources revealing previously that Spurs want a British transfer record fee to sell their star defender, which would be more than the £125m Liverpool paid to sign Alexander Isak last summer.
Van de Ven has been recorded as the fastest player in Premier League history, with his speed a key trait in his game.
Do United Need a Centre-Back?
You wouldn't say it was a massive priority for United, especially if Harry Maguire does extend his stay at Old Trafford with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.
The latest suggestion is that it is likely that the 32-year-old will commit his future to the Red Devils, which would leave the England international as an option alongside Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven.
What you would say is that injury issues for the likes of Maguire, Martinez and De Ligt in recent seasons could be a worry, and see United act in the market.
How Much is Van de Ven Really Worth?
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT how much Van de Ven is really worth given the reported £125m+ price tag, and this is what it said:
'As of February 2026, centre-back Micky van de Ven is widely regarded as one of the most valuable defenders in world football. Recent market estimates put his current transfer value around €90 million–€115 million (roughly £75m-£100m) based on interest from clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid, with Tottenham expected to demand about £100 million or more for his signature.
This is a big rise from the €40–50 million fee Spurs paid Wolfsburg in 2023, reflecting his development and long contract until 2029.'