Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven would reportedly prioritize a move to Liverpool and working under new manager Arne Slot, according to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs. The 25-year-old Netherlands international has emerged as a potential target for both Liverpool and Manchester United, though the circumstances surrounding a deal differ for each club.
Initial reports from TEAMtalk’s Fraser Fletcher in February indicated Liverpool’s interest in Van de Ven, with Manchester United also monitoring the situation. At the time, sources suggested Van de Ven was open to leaving Tottenham during the summer transfer window. More recently, Fletcher reported that Liverpool have identified Van de Ven as a ‘prime candidate’ to eventually succeed Virgil van Dijk at the heart of their defense.
However, any potential deal for Van de Ven is heavily influenced by Tottenham’s Premier League status. Should Spurs avoid relegation, the club could demand a fee of up to £90 million for the central defender. Jacobs clarified that Manchester United’s interest is contingent on Tottenham being relegated, while Van de Ven himself would favour a move to Anfield if both clubs made formal offers.
Jacobs stated on The United Stand that Van de Ven “would want to join Liverpool” without hesitation if given the choice. He also noted that while Van de Ven enjoys playing under Tottenham’s current manager, he may be reluctant to play in the Championship. The player is currently focused on helping Tottenham retain their Premier League status, but a move to Liverpool represents an attractive prospect.
Van de Ven joined Tottenham from Wolfsburg in August 2023, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the Spurs backline. His strong performances have drawn the attention of top clubs, and a move to Liverpool would offer him the opportunity to play Champions League football and compete for major honours. Securing Van de Ven would provide Slot with a long-term solution in central defence and potentially ease the eventual transition following Van Dijk’s departure.
