Liverpool have reportedly been told they would need to pay around £100m if they are to sign Micky van de Ven, with the Tottenham defender emerging as a potential long-term replacement for captain Virgil van Dijk.
The Reds continue to reshape their defence following the arrival of highly-rated French centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who joined from Rennes in a deal worth up to £60m.
Despite suffering an injury in February, the 20-year-old France Under-21 international is expected to be fit in time for pre-season under new head coach Andoni Iraola.
Jacquet joins a growing list of young defensive recruits as sporting director Richard Hughes looks to strengthen Liverpool’s backline for the future. Last summer, the club added Giovanni Leoni from Parma for £26m, while Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe have also arrived as part of the club’s long-term planning.
Liverpool preparing for defensive Transition
Liverpool are facing a significant period of change in defence.
Following Ibrahima Konaté’s departure to Real Madrid, uncertainty also surrounds the futures of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, with the experienced duo potentially leaving in the near future.
Although Liverpool remain confident in the potential of their younger defenders, the club are believed to be keen on adding an established Premier League centre-back who can provide leadership and experience during the transition.
Van de Ven on Liverpool’s radar
According to reports, Micky van de Ven has emerged as one of Liverpool’s leading defensive targets.
Tottenham’s recent defensive additions, including Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi, could leave the north London club open to considering offers for the Dutch international.
Van de Ven’s current contract runs until 2029, but negotiations over an extension have reportedly stalled, giving Liverpool hope that a deal could become possible.
Spurs value defender at £100m
However, any move is expected to come at a significant cost.
Reports suggest Tottenham would demand at least £100m before considering the sale of Van de Ven, who joined the club from Wolfsburg in 2023.
The 25-year-old has long been admired by Liverpool, with former Reds boss Arne Slot having previously attempted to sign him during his spells at AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord.
With Van Dijk’s current contract due to expire in 2027, Liverpool are said to view Van de Ven as one of the standout candidates to eventually succeed the Dutch captain at the heart of their defence.