Manchester United have reportedly joined Liverpool in the race to sign Tottenham Hotspur star Micky Van de Ven, as per Caught Offside.
The Red Devils currently have Lisandro Martínez and Ayden Heaven as specialist options to deploy in the left centre-back position. Moreover, Harry Maguire can provide cover in this area if needed.
However, Martínez has struggled with fitness problems in recent years and has entered the final few months of his existing deal, with United having an option to extend his contract for one more year.
On the other hand, Maguire’s current contract will also expire next summer, and Man Utd can extend his deal for a year further. Heaven, meanwhile, is still very young and needs time to develop.
As a result, it appears Michael Carrick’s side have started exploring options to sign a new LCB. Caught Offside claim that Man Utd have expressed their interest in Van de Ven and have been monitoring his situation closely before making a potential swoop next year.
However, the Old Trafford club will have to overcome fierce competition to seal the deal as Liverpool have also been keeping a close eye on him.
Having recently tied the 25-year-old down to a fresh term until 2031, Tottenham aren’t in any rush to sell him, and he doesn’t have a release clause. However, if they are forced to cash-in amid their recent struggles, Spurs want up to £90m.
Battle
Van de Ven is a 6ft 4in tall left-footed centre-back and can provide cover in the left-back position if needed. He is quick, strong, good in the air, can play out from the back and is efficient in defensive contributions.
With Virgil Van Dijk’s current contract set to expire at the end of this season, Liverpool have seemingly started exploring options to replace the former Southampton star.
Van de Ven is a Premier League-proven player and is currently at the prime stage of his career. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd or Liverpool should either club purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Old Trafford club or the Merseyside club eventually manage to secure his services next year.
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