Liverpool’s reported interest in Micky van de Ven has suffered an early setback, with Tottenham Hotspur understood to have no plans to consider offers for the Netherlands international next summer.
The defender has emerged as one of Liverpool’s leading targets as the club plans for life beyond Virgil van Dijk, whose future at Anfield remains uncertain beyond the current campaign.
Van de Ven fits the profile Liverpool are seeking, offering pace, Premier League experience and the ability to operate on the left side of central defence. However, Tottenham regard the 25-year-old as a key part of their plans.
Liverpool face resistance over Micky van de Ven
Football Insider reports that Liverpool are considering a move for Van de Ven as part of a longer-term defensive rebuild. The player has reportedly been admired at Anfield for some time.
Spurs’ position has been reinforced by the new long-term contract Van de Ven signed in August. The agreement gives Tottenham significant control over his future and leaves them under no contractual pressure to sell.
The defender has also spoken about his affection for Tottenham and his belief in the direction of the club’s project, making an immediate departure difficult to envisage.
Liverpool’s interest is understandable as they assess how to eventually replace Van Dijk. A quick, physically dominant Dutch centre-back with established Premier League experience would appear to offer an attractive solution.
Any potential approach, however, is likely to come at a substantial cost. Tottenham are expected to resist interest from Liverpool and other clubs, meaning an enormous offer may be required even to begin negotiations.
Spurs are also enduring another difficult start to the season, and losing one of their most important defenders would leave them with a major problem to address. For now, their stance is that Van de Ven is not available.
