Liverpool are lurking to steal one star from under Manchester United noses. A potential coup, then?
The Athletic reports that Manchester United are hoping to snatch Micky van de Ven from Tottenham Hotspur. It appears their interest doesn’t necessarily hinge on Spurs getting relegated this season – but that would unquestionably make it easier.
United want to sign a defender to improve their defence, though they’re not going so far as wanting an overhaul. Instead, an experienced player in his prime years is wanted.
Van de Ven fits the bill nicely, but the report also mentions that they potentially face trouble from Liverpool. The Reds have apparently had a strong interest in the Dutchman before and they could compete with United for his signature.
Though, we’ll stress that it’s not reported that Liverpool are currently in the market for Van de Ven. Instead, they’re lurking in the background, putting pressure on United and potentially making a move.
We do wonder if Spurs’ relegation may be enough to trigger movement from Liverpool. Van de Ven would likely go for under his true market value, after all.
But at the same time, Liverpool are on the brink of renewing Ibrahima Konate’s contract. It feels unlikely, then, that a move for a top centre-back happens once the ink is dry on that – though, there is still time for things to change.
Don’t expect Liverpool to move for Van de Ven, then. But it does remain a possibility if things go a certain way this summer.
Micky van de Ven: Situation Summary
Premier League Campaign and Statistical Summary
As of 23 April 2026, Micky van de Ven remains one of the few standout performers in a calamitous season for Tottenham Hotspur. The 25-year-old Dutchman has recorded 2,593 minutes across the Premier League campaign, contributing four goals and one assist while maintaining an 89.4% pass completion rate. Despite his individual efforts and a 6.66 average rating, Spurs find themselves 18th in the table, two points adrift of safety with five games remaining. His speed remains elite, though a red card and eight yellow cards reflect the defensive strain on a team that has not won a league match in 2026.
Transfer Speculation and Spurs Exit
Van de Ven’s future in North London appears increasingly unlikely regardless of whether Tottenham survive relegation. Reports from 22 April 2026 indicate he has already begun "tying up loose ends" off the pitch, signalling an imminent summer departure. Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly set to go head-to-head for his signature, with United viewing him as a priority target to bolster their backline. Real Madrid and Barcelona are also monitoring the situation after the defender allegedly turned down a new five-year contract offer in March. While Spurs have placed a £100 million price tag on the centre-back, this valuation is expected to plummet if they drop to the Championship.
International Role
On the international stage, Van de Ven is a regular in the Netherlands squad, most recently featuring in friendlies against Norway and Ecuador. He is widely expected to be a key defensive asset for Ronald Koeman at the 2026 World Cup this June.
