Liverpool Target Tottenham’s Van de Ven to Bolster Defence | OneFootball

Liverpool Pursue Micky van de Ven as Top Centre-Back Target

Liverpool are prioritising defensive reinforcements this summer, with Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven emerging as a key target. According to TEAMtalk, Arne Slot is a major driving force behind the interest, believing the Dutch defender has the attributes to thrive at Anfield.

Slot’s Influence on Van de Ven Pursuit

Liverpool’s admiration for Van de Ven is strongly shaped by Arne Slot’s belief in the player’s potential. As reported by TEAMtalk: “Liverpool are ‘very keen’ on signing Van de Ven from Tottenham, since the Dutchman is ‘hugely rated by Arne Slot’.”

Slot, alongside Liverpool’s scouting department, views Van de Ven as a future Champions League-level performer. Despite having no experience in the competition, Liverpool share Slot’s confidence, stating: “Liverpool believe Van de Ven is an ‘elite Champions League level’ player – even though he is yet to experience playing in that competition.”

Photo: IMAGO

The Dutch connection between Slot and Van de Ven is notable, though the two never crossed paths in the Eredivisie, as Van de Ven developed at FC Volendam before moving to Wolfsburg.

Long-Term Planning for Liverpool’s Defence

Liverpool’s pursuit of Van de Ven is part of a wider strategy to future-proof their backline. With Virgil van Dijk turning 34 next season and Ibrahima Konaté attracting interest from Paris Saint-Germain, the club is preparing for possible departures or reduced roles.

Van de Ven offers a unique profile: a rapid, left-footed centre-back, something Liverpool currently lack. Slot also values his mentality, with TEAMtalk adding: “Slot also thinks Van de Ven has the right character to succeed as a starting centre-back for his Liverpool side.”

At 24 years old, Van de Ven is entering his prime, and his experience at Tottenham since his €50m move from Wolfsburg in 2023 has cemented his reputation as a top-tier defender.

Guehi Named as Alternative Centre-Back Target

Van de Ven is not Liverpool’s only option, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi also high on their list. Guehi’s contract situation, with just a year remaining, could make him a more affordable option than Van de Ven. However, Palace resisted a significant bid from Tottenham in January, underlining their determination to keep him.

Guehi’s Premier League experience is a strong advantage, but Van de Ven’s pace and ability to play on the left side of defence may better suit Liverpool’s tactical needs.

Dutch Influence Extends Beyond Defence

Liverpool’s recruitment under Arne Slot has a distinctly Dutch theme. Alongside Van de Ven, reports suggest the club are interested in PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko. The Belgian winger is seen as a potential addition to Liverpool’s attacking options, with speculation about Mohamed Salah’s future continuing to swirl.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s impact on the Salah situation is significant, with his relationship with the Egyptian possibly key to securing an extension. As TEAMtalk reports, a recent update from Salah’s agent suggests optimism, with Slot central to the discussions.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Liverpool’s pursuit of Micky van de Ven is encouraging. The need for a new centre-back has been apparent, particularly with Van Dijk’s advancing years and Konaté’s uncertain future. Van de Ven’s exceptional pace and left-footed profile make him a perfect fit for Slot’s high-pressing system.

Fans will appreciate that Slot rates Van de Ven highly, and his knowledge of Dutch football talent adds credibility to the move. However, there will be concerns about the potential fee, especially if Tottenham demand a premium for selling to a direct rival.

The alternative, Marc Guehi, is a tempting option due to his Premier League experience and potentially lower cost. Yet, Guehi’s right-footed style may not address the specific gap Van de Ven would fill.

Ultimately, Liverpool fans will trust Slot’s judgement but will also hope that the club acts decisively to avoid a bidding war. Whether it is Van de Ven, Guehi, or another target, strengthening the backline must be a priority if Liverpool are to challenge for silverware under their new manager.