Liverpool are emerging as strong contenders to land one of the Premier League’s most talented young centre-backs, with Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven making it clear where his preferences lie.
According to reliable sources, the 25-year-old Netherlands international would prioritise a move to Anfield above most other destinations — including rivals Manchester United — should the opportunity arise this summer.
TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher first revealed Liverpool’s interest in Van de Ven back in February, with further updates in early May reinforcing the Reds’ admiration for the player. Sources indicate that Liverpool view the rapid, ball-playing Dutchman as a prime candidate to eventually succeed Virgil van Dijk as the cornerstone of their defence.
Van de Ven’s clear preference
Fletcher has reported that Van de Ven is genuinely excited by the prospect of working under Arne Slot at Anfield. “Sources suggest he would choose Liverpool over rivals, including Manchester United, without hesitation if both clubs table formal offers,” the journalist stated.
This stance was echoed by respected transfer journalist Ben Jacobs, who confirmed that the defender “would want to join Liverpool” if the Reds enter the race in earnest. Jacobs noted the situation remains fluid, particularly depending on Tottenham’s final position this season.
“If Tottenham stay up, I think Micky van de Ven will likely sign a new deal,” Jacobs said on The United Stand. “But if Liverpool enter that race, Van de Ven would want to join Liverpool.”
The financial reality
Any potential deal would not come cheaply. Should Tottenham avoid relegation and remain in the Premier League, Spurs are expected to demand as much as £90 million for their star defender. The fee reflects Van de Ven’s quality, athleticism, and long-term potential as one of Europe’s top centre-backs.
Van de Ven has reportedly been open to a summer departure from north London, even as he remains fully focused on helping Tottenham stave off relegation. While he is said to enjoy working under current manager Roberto De Zerbi, the prospect of dropping into the Championship does not appeal to the ambitious 25-year-old.
A strategic fit for Slot
From Liverpool’s perspective, Van de Ven represents an ideal profile: young, physically dominant, comfortable in possession, and capable of thriving in a high-pressing system. His arrival could provide both immediate competition and long-term succession planning for the ageing Van Dijk.
Manchester United have also monitored the player closely, but sources suggest they would only make a formal approach if Tottenham are relegated.
What happens next?
While no formal bids have been submitted yet, the combination of Van de Ven’s stated preference for Liverpool and the Reds’ long-term interest in him makes this one of the more intriguing transfer sagas of the summer window.
For now, the Dutchman’s immediate priority remains securing Premier League status for Tottenham. However, should Spurs survive, Liverpool fans can be optimistic that a player who has already earmarked Anfield as his dream destination may soon be heading to Merseyside.
A £90 million statement signing under Arne Slot could be closer than many realise.